Reflections on a Flower-Garden
Madam, COME time ago, my meditations took a turn among the tombs: they visited the awful and melancholy mansions of the dead *; and you was pleased to favour them with your attention. May I now beg the honour of your company in a more inviting and delightful excursion? — in a beautiful flower-garden, where I lately walked, and at once regaled the sense and indulged the fancy.
It was early in a summer morning, when the air was cool, the earth moist, the whole face of
* ‘Discourses on the vanity of the creature, which represent the barrenness of every thing in this world, and its incapacity of producing any solid or substantial happiness, are useful. Those speculations also, which show the bright side of things, and lay forth those innocent entertainments which are to be met with among the several objects that encompass us, are no less beneficial. ‘Spect. Vol. V. No. 393. Upon the plan of these observations the preceding and following reflections are formed.
the creation fresh and gay. The noisy world was scarce awake: business had not quite shook off his sound sleep, and riot had but just reclined his giddy head. All was serene, all was still; every thing tended to inspire tranquillity of mind, and invite to serious thought.
Only the wakeful lark had left her nest, and was mounting on high to salute the opening day. Elevated in air, she seemed to call the laborious husbandman to his toil, and all her fellow-songsters to their notes. Earliest of birds, said 1, companion of the dawn, may I always rise at thy vpice! rise to offer the matin-song, and adore that beneficent Being, ’ who maketh the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice.’
How charming to rove abroad at this sweet hour of prime, to enjoy the calm of nature, to tread the dewy lawns, and taste the unrifled freshness of the air!
Sweet is the breath of morn, her rising sweet, “With charm of earliest birds.
What a pleasure do the sons of sloth lose! Little, ah! little is the sluggard sensible how delicious an entertainment he foregoes, for the poorest of all animal gratifications*.
The greyness of the dawn decays gradually. Abundance of ruddy streaks tinge the fleeces of the firmament, till at length the dappled aspect of the east is lost in one ardent and boundless blush.
* See! how revelation and reason, the Scriptures and the classics, unanimously exhort to this most beneficial practice. They both invite us to early rising by the most engaging motives and the most alluring representations.
Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages. Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, whe-U it the surmise of imagination, or do the skies really redden with shame, to see so many supinely stretched on their drowsy pillows? Shall man be lost in luxurious ease? Shall man waste these precious hours in idle slumbers, while the vigorous sun is up, and going on his Maker’s errand? while all the feathered choir are hymning the Creator, and paying their homage in harmony? No; let him heighten the melody of the tuneful tribes by adding the rational strains of devotion; let him improve the fragrant oblations of nature by mingling with the rising odours the more refined breath of praise.
rris natural for man to look upwards, to throw his first glance upon the objects that are above him.
Straight towards heav’n my wond’ring eyes 1 And gaz’d a while the ample sky. [turn’d,
Prodigious- theatre! where lightnings dart their fire, and thunders utter their voice; where tempests spend their rage, and worlds unnumbered roll at large! O the greatness of that mighty hand, which meteth out this amazing circumference with a span! O the immensity of that wonderful Being, before whom this unmeasurable extent is no more than a point! And O (thou pleasing thought!) the unsearchable riches of that mercy which is greater than the heavens*! is more enlarged and extensive in its gracious exit i
ther the tender grape appear, and the pomegranates bud forth. Cant. vii. 11, 12.
Luciferi primo cum sidere, frigida rura [nent, Carpamus: dum mane novum, dum gramina ca-Et ros in tenera pecori gratissimus herba est.
Virg. Georg. III.
* Psal. cviii. i.
ercise, than these illimitable tracts of air, and sea, and firmament! which pardons crimes of the most enormous size and the most horrid aggravations; pardons them in consideration of the Redeemer’s atonement, with perfect freeness and the utmost readiness! more readily, if it were possible, than this all-surrounding expanse admits within its circuit a ridge of mountains, or even a grain of sand.
Come hither, then, ye awakened, trembling sinners; come*, weary and heavy-laden with a sense of your iniquities, condemn yourselves; re-
The lines which follow are admirably descriptive of the spirit and practice hinted above: in them desire pants, prayer wrestles, and faith as it were grasps the prize. I take leave to transplant them into this place; and I could wish them a better, a more conspicuous situation, than either their new or their native soil. Their native soil is no other than The Lamentation of a Sinner,’ written by Mr. Sternhold. Notwithstanding the unpromising genius of the performance, I think we may challenge the greatest masters to produce any thing more spirited and importunate, more full of nature, or more flushed with life.
Mercy, good Lord, mercy I crave;
This is the total sum;
For mercy, Lord, is all my suit;
Lord, let thy mercy come.
The short sentences, not a single copulative; the frequent repetition of the divine name; the almost incessant reiteration of the blessing so passionately desired, and inexpressibly needed; — this is the genuine language of ardor; these are beauties obvious to every eye, and cannot fail, either to please the judicious taste, or to edify the gracious heart.
nounce all reliance on any thing of your own; let your trust be in the tender mercy of God for ever and ever.
4 In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun *.’ Behold him coming forth from the chambers of the east; see the clouds, like floating curtains, are thrown back at his approach. With what refulgent majesty does he walk abroad! how transcendency bright is his countenance, shedding day and inexhaustible light through the universe! Is there a scene, though finished by the most elaborate and costly refinements of art, ’ comparable to these illustrious solemnities of opening sunshine? Before these all the studied pageantry of the theatre, the glittering economy of an assembly, or even the heightened ornaments of a royal palace, hide their diminished heads, and shrink into nothing.’ I have read of a person so struck with the splendors of this noble luminary, that he imagined himself made on purpose to contemplate its glories. O! that Christians would adopt his persuasion, and transfer it to the Sun of Righteousness! Thus applied, it would cease to be a chimerical notion, and become a most important truth. For sure I am, it is the supreme happiness of the etetnal state, and therefore may well be the ruling concern of this present life, to know the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent. “Nor do I stand alone in this opinion. The very best judge of whatever is valuable in science, or perfective of our nature; a judge who formed his taste on the maxims of paradise, and received the finishings of his education in the third heavens; this judge determines to know nothing but .lesus Christ, and him crucified. He possessed in his own person the finest, the most admired aci (vnplishments, yet pronounces them no better than
* Psal. xix. 4.
£2- dung, in comparison of the supereminent excellency of this saving knowledge*.
Methinks I discern a thousand admirable properties in the sun. ‘lis certainly the best material emblem of the Creator. There is more of God in its lustre, energy, and usefulness, than in any other visible being. To worship it as a deity was the least inexcusable of all the heathen idolatries. One scarce can wonder that fallen reason should mistake so fair a copy for the adorable Original. No comparison in the whole book of sacred wisdom pleases me more, than that which resembles the blessed Jesus to yonder regent of the day t, who now advances on his azure roud to scatter light and dispense gladness through the nations.
“What were all the realms of the world, but a dungeon of darkness, without the beams of the sun? all their fine scenes hid from our view, lost in obscurity. In vain we roll around our eyes in the midnight gloom: in vain we strive to behold the features of amiable nature. Turn whither we will, no form or comeliness appears; all seems a dreary waste, aa undistinguished chaos, till the returning hours have unbarred the gates of light, and let forth the morn. Then, what a prospect opens! The heavens are paved with azure, and strewed with roses. A variety of the liveliest verdures array the plains. The flowers put on a glow of the richest colours. The whole creation stands forth, dressed in all the charms of beauty. The ravished eye looks round and wonders.
And what had been the condition of our intellectual nature without the great Redeemer, and
* To U7re£g)/ov t»jj yvixxrewg. Phil. iii. 8.
i Unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise, with healing in his wings. Mai. iv. 2.
his divine revelation? Alas! what absurd and unworthy apprehensions did the pagan sages form of God! What idle dreams, what childish conjectures, were their doctrines of a future state! How did the bulk even of that favoured nation, the Jews, weary themselves in very vanity to obtain peace and reconciliation with their offended Jehovah I till Jesus arose upon our benighted minds, and brought life and immortality to light; till he arose to enlighten the wretched Gentiles, and to be the glory of his people Israel.
Now we no longer cry out with a restless impa* tience, Where is God my Maker?’ for we are allowed to contemplate the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, in the face of Jesus Christ. Now we no longer inquire with an unsatisfied solicitude, ‘Which is the way to bliss?’ because Jesus has marked the path by his his shining example, and left us an unerring clue in his holy word. Now, we have no more reason to proceed with misgiving hearts in our journey to eternity, or to ask anxiously as we go, ‘Who will roll away the stone and open the everlasting doors? Who will remove the flaming sword, and give us admission into the delights of Paradise?’ for it is done, all done, by the Captain of our salvation. Sin he has expiated by the unblemished sacrifice of himself: the law he has fulfilled by his perfect obedience: the sinner he transforms by his sanctifying Spirit: in a word, he hath both presented us with a clear discovery of good things to come, and administered to us an abundant entrance into the final enjoyment of them.
Whenever, therefore, we bless God for the circling seasons and revolving day, let us adort, thankfully adore him for the more precious appearance of the Sun of Righteousness, and his glorious Gospel, without which we should have been groping, even to this hour, in spiritual darkness and the shadow of death; without winch we must have wandered in a maze of inextricable uncertainties, and have ’ stumbled upon the dark mountains’ of error, till we fell into the boitorr:- less pit of perdition.
Without that grand enlivening principle, what were this earth, but a lifeless mass, a rude lump of inactive matter? The trees could never break forth into leaves, nor the plants spring up into flowers: we should no more behold the meadows mantled over with green, nor the valleys standing thick with corn: or, to speak in the beautiful language of a prophet, ‘No longer would the fig-tree blossom, nor fruit be in the vine; the labour of the olive would fail, and the fields could yield no meat; the flocks must be cut off from the fold, and there would be no herd in the stalls *.’ The sun darts its beams among all the vegetable tribes, and paints the spring and enriches the autumn: this pierces to the roots of the vineyard and the orchard, and sets afloat those fermenting juices which at length burst into floods of wine, or bend the boughs with a mellow load. Nor are its favours confined to the upper regions, but distributed unto the deepest recesses of creation. It penetrates the beds of metal, and finds its way to the place of the sapphires: it tinctures the seeds of gold that are ripening into ore, and throws a brilliancy into the water of the diamond that is hardening on its rock: in short, the beneficial agency of this magnificent luminary is inexpressible; it beautifies and impregnates universal nature; ’ there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.’
Just in the same manner were the rational world dead in trespasses and sins, without the reriving energy of Jesus Christ. He is the ‘Re-
* Hab. iii. 17.
1 LOWER GARDEN. fc5
iurrection and the Life;’ the overflowing fountain of the one, and the all-powerful cause of the other. The second Adam is a quickening Spirit, and all his saints live through him. He shines upon their affections, and thty shoot forth into heavenly graces, and abouud in the fruits of righteousness. Faith unfeigned, and love undisscmbled, those noblest productions of the renewed nature, are the effects of his operation on the mind. !Not so much as one divine disposition could spread itself, not one Christian habit unfold and flourish, without the kindly influences of his grace.
As there is no fruitfulness, so likewise no cheerfulness, without the sun*. When that auspicious sovereign of the day diffuses the mildness of his morning splendor, he creates an universal festival. Millions of glittering insects awake into existence, and bask in his rays: the birds start from their slumbers, and pour their delighted souls in harmony: the flocks with bleating accents hail the welcome blessing: the valleys ring with rural music; the hills echo back the artless strains: all that is vocal joins in the general choir; all that has breath exults in the cheering influence. Whereas, was that radiant orb extinguished, a tremendous gloom would ensue, and horror insupportable. Nay, let it only be eclipsed for a few minutes, and all nature assumes an air of sadness; the heavens are wrapt in sables, and put on a kind of mourning; the most sprightly animals hang down their dejected heads; the songsters of the grove are struck dumb; howling beasts roam abroad for prey; ominous birds come
* * The sun, which is the great soul of the universe, and produces all the necessaries of life, has a particular influence in cheering the mind of man and making the heart glad.’ Spect. Vol. V.
forth and screech; the heart of man fails, or a sudden pang seizes the foreboding mind. So, when Christ hides away his face, when faith loses sight of that consolation of Israel, how gloomy are the prospects of the soul! Our God seems to be a consuming fire, and our sins cry loudly for vengeance: the thoughts bleed inwardly; the Christian walks heavily; all without is irksome, all within is disconsolate. Lift up then, most gracious Jesus, thou nobler day-spring from on high! O lift up the light of thy countenance upon thy people! Reveal the fulness of thy mediatorial sufficiency; make clear our title to this great salvation, and thereby impart
What nothing earthly gives or can destroy,
The soul’s calm sunshine, and the heart-felt
joy*-
In one instance more let me pursue the similitude. The sun, I observe, pours his lustre all around, to every distance and in every direction; profusely liberal of his gifts, he illuminates and cheers all the ends of the earth and the whole compass of the skies; the east reddens with his rising radiance, and the western hills are gilded with his streaming splendors; the chilly regions of the north are cherished by his genial warmth, while the southern tracts glow with his fire. Thus are the influences of the Sun of Righteousness diffusive and unconfined; the generations of old felt them, and generations yet unborn will rejoice in them; the merits of his precious death extended to the first and will be propagated to the last ages of mankind. May they, ere long, visit the remotest climates and darkest corners of the earth! Command thy Gospel, blessed Jesus, tby everlasting Gospel, to take the wings of the morn-
* Tope’s Eth. Ep.
ing and travel with yonder sun; let it fly upon strong pinions among every people, nation, and language; that where the heat scorches and the cold freezes, thou rnayst be known, confessed, and adored! that strangers to thy name and enemies to thy doctrine may be enlightened with the knowledge and won to the love of thy truth! O! may that best of aeras come, that wished-for period advance, when all the ends of the world shall remember themselves and be turned unto the Lord, and all the kindreds of the nations worship before him*!
From the heavens we retire to the earth. Here the drops of dew, like so many liquid crystals*, sparkle upon the eye. How brilliant and unsullied is their lustre! How little inferior to the proud stone which irradiates a monarch’s crown! They want nothing but solidity and permanency to equal them with the finest treasures of the jeweller’s casket. Here it must be confessed they are greatly deficient. Shortlived ornaments, possessed of little more than a momentary radiance; the sun that lights them up will soon melt them into air, or exhale them into vapours; within another hour we may look for their place and they shall be away.’ O! may every good resolution of mine and of my flock’s, may our united breathings after God, not be like these transient decorations of the morning, but like the substantial glory of the growing day! The one shines more and more with augmented splendors; while the other, having glittered gaily for a few moments, disappear and are lost.
How sensibly has this dew refreshed the vegetable kingdom! The fervent heat of yesterday’s
* Psal. xxii. 27.
+ Now morn, her rosy steps in th’ eastern clime Advancing, sow’d the earth with orient pearl.
Milt.
sun had almost parched the face and exhausted the sweets of nature. But what a sovereign restorative are these cooling distillations of the night! How they gladden and invigorate the languishing herbs! Sprinkled with these reviving drops, their verdure deepens, their bloom is new-flushed; their fragrance, faint or intermitted, becomes potent and copious. Thus does the ever- blessed Spirit revive the drooping troubled conscience of a sinner. When that Almighty Comforter sheds his sweet influence on the soul, displays the all-sufficient sacrifice of a Divine Redeemer, and ’ witnesses with our spirit, that we are interested in the Saviour, and by this means are children of God; then what a pleasing change ensues! Former anxieties are remembered no more; every uneasy apprehension vanishes; soothing hopes and delightful expectations succeed; the countenance drops its dejected mien; the eyes brighten with a lively cheerfulness; while the lips express the heart-felt satisfaction in the language of thanksgiving and the voice of melody. In this sense, merciful God, be as the dew unto Israel! ‘Pour upon them the continual dew of thy blessing.’ And O! let not my fleece be dry while heavenly benediction descends upon all around.
Who can number these pearly drops? They hang on every hedge, they twinkle from every spray, and adorn the whole herbage of the field. Not a blade of grass, not a single leaf, but wears the watery pendants; so vast is the profusion, that it baffles the arithmetician’s art. Here let the benevolent mind contemplate and admire that emphatical Scripture, which from this elegant similitude describes the increase of the Messiah’s kingdom. The royal prophet, spe&king of Christ, and foretelling the success of his religion, has this remarkable expression *; ’ the dew of thy birth is
* Psai ex. 3. jm bD ^? *inwD onia.
of the womb of the morning: (i. e.) As the morning is the mother of dews, produces them as it
The most exact translation of this difficult passage is, I apprehend, as follows; Prae rore uteri aurorae, tibi est ros juventutis vel prolis tuae. The dew of thy birth is larger, more copious, than the dew which proceeds from the womb of the morning. I cannot acquiesce in the new version, because that disjoins the womb of the morning from the dew of thy birth; whereas they seem to have a clear affinity and a close connection. The womb of the morning is, with the utmost pertinency, applied to the conception and production of dews, agreeably to a delicate line, in that great master of just description and lively painting, Mr. Thomson:
The meek-eyed morn appears, mother of dews.
Summer.
We meet with a fine expression in the book of Job which may serve to confirm this remark, may illustrate the propriety of the phrase used in this connection: ‘Hath the rain a father, or who hath begotten the drops of dew?’ It seems the oriental writers delighted to represent the dew as a kind of birth, as the offspring of the morning; and if so, surely there could be no image in the whole compass of the universe better adapted to the Psalmist’s purpose, or more strongly significant of those multitudes of proselytes which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God, by the powerful energy of his word and Spirit. Upon this supposition, the whole verse describes
The willing subjection, “) e.,
The gracious accomplishments, V 0t Urn*’ con-And the vast number, J verts:
were from a prolific womb, and scatters them with the most lavish abundance over all the surq. d. In the day of thy power, when thy glorious Gospel shall be published in the world and accompanied with marvellous efficacy — in that memorable period, thy people discontinuing the former oblations commanded under the Mosaic law, shall devote themselves as so many living sacrifices to thy honour. Not constrained by force, but charmed with thy excellency, they shall come in volunteers to thy service, and be free-will offerings in thy church. Neither shall they be ’ empty vines,’ or bare professors, but shall walk in all the beauties of holiness, and bring forth such amiable fruit as will adorn the doctrine they embrace. What is still more desirable, they shall be as numerous as they are willing and holy; born to Thee in numbers immense and inconceivable, exceeding even the countless myriads of dew-drops which are begotten by the night and issue from the womb of the recent morning.
By this interpretation, the text, I think, is cleared of its obscurity and appears both truly sublime and perfectly just.
May I be pardoned the digression and acquitted from presumption, if on this occasion I take leave to animadvert upon what seems harsh and unnatural’ in the common exposition of the last verse of this psalm? All the commentators (as many at least as I have consulted) inform their readers, that to drink of the brook in the way, signifies to undergo sufferings and death; which, in my opinion, is a construction extremely forced and hardly supportable; altogether remote from the import of such poetical forms of diction customary among the eastern nations. In those sultry climes nothing could be more welcome to the traveller than a brook streaming near his paths.
face of the earth: so shall thy seed be, O thou everlasting Father! By the preaching of thy word
To quench his thirst, and lave his feet in the cooling current, was one of the greatest refreshments imaginable, and reanimated him to pursue his journey; for which reason, among others, brooks are a very favourite image with the inspired penmen, used to denote a situation fertile and delightful, or a state of pleasure and satisfaction; but never, that I can recollect, to picture out the contrary condition of tribulation and distress.
The water floods, indeed, in the sacred writings, often represent some imminent danger or grievous affliction; but then they are not — *p11 E3*?nJ — streams so calm that they keep within their banks, and glide quietly by the traveller’s footsteps, so clear that they are fit for the wayfaring man’s use, and invite his lips to a draught; both which notions are plainly implied in the text. They are rather ~- **Qttf D — boisterous billows, bursting over a ship, or dashing themselves with dreadful impetuosity upon the shore: or — JY7^ttf — sweeping inundations which bear down all before them, and drown the neighbouring country. Besides, in these instances of horror we never find the word — nntfc- He shall drink, which conveys a pleasing idea (unless when it relates to a cup filled with bitter, intoxicating, or’impoisoned liquors, a case quite different from that under consideration) but either — D#H — which imports terror and astonishment, or else — FitOttJ and ID]? — which signify to rush upon, to overwhelm, and even to bury under the waves.
Upon the whole: may not the passage more properly allude to the influences of the Holy Ghost, which were communicated in unmeasurable d«- shall such an innumerable race of regenerate children be born unto Thee, and prove an ornament and a blessing to all ages. Millions, millions of willing converts from every nation under heaven shall croud into thy family, and replenish thy church; till they become like the stars of the sky or the sands of the sea for multitude, or even as numberless as these fine spangies which now cover the face of nature. Behold then, ye obstinately wicked, though you are not gathered, yet will the Saviour be glorious.’ His design shall not miscarry nor his labour prove abortive, though you render it of none
grees to our great High-Priest, and were in fact the cause of his surmounting all difficulties? These are frequently represented by waters: * Whoso believeth on me, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living waters.’ The enjoyment of them is described by drinking: ‘He that drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst.’ Then the sense may run in this well-connected and perspicuous manner. It is asked, How shall the Redeemer be able to execute the various and important offices foretold in the preceding parts of the psalm? The prophet replies, ‘He shall drink of the brook in the way;’ he shall not be left barely to his human nature, which must unavoidably sink under the tremendous work of recovering a lotet world; but through the whole course of his incarnate state, through the whole administration of his mediatorial kingdom, shall be supported with omnipotent succours: he shall drink at the brook of Almighty power, and travel on in the greatness of an uncreated strength. ‘Therefore shall he lift up his head;’ by this means shall he be equal to the prodigious task, and superior to all opposition; by this means shall he be thoroughly successful in whatever he undertakes, and greatly triumphant over all his enemies.
effect with regard to yourselves; think not that Immanuel will want believers, or heaven inhabitants, because you continue incorrigible. No, the Lamb that was slain will ’ see of the travail of his soul and be satisfied,’ in a never-failing series of faithful people below, and an immense choir of glorified saints above, who shall form his retinue and surround his throne in shining and triumphant armies, such as no man can number.
Here I was reminded of the various expedients which Providence, unsearchably wise, uses to fructify both the material and intellectual world. Sometimes you shall have impetuous and heavy showers bursting from the angry clouds: they lash the plains and make the rivers foam: a storm brings them, and a deluge follows them. At other times these gentle dews are formed in the serene evening air: they steal down by slow degrees and within sensible stillness; so subtile that they deceive the nicest eye; so silent that they escape the most delicate ear; and when fallen, so very light, that they neither bruise the tenderest nor oppress the weakest flower. Very different operations! yet ach concurs in the same beneficial end, and both impart fertility to the lap of nature.
So some persons have I known reclaimed from the unfruitful works of darkness by violent and severe means. The Almighty addressed their stubborn hearts as he addressed the Israelites at Sinai, with lightning in his eyes and thunder in his voice. The conscience, smit with a sense of guilt, and apprehensive of eternal vengeance, trembled through all her powers; just as that strong mountain tottered to its centre; pangs of remorse and agonies of fear preceded their new birth; they were reduced to the last extremities, almost overwhelmed with despair before they found rest in Jesus Christ. Others have been recovered from a vain conveis*tion by methods more mild and attractive. The Father of spirits applied himself to their teachable minds in a still and small voice:’ his grace came down as the rain into a fleece of wool, or as these softening drops which now water the earth The kingdom of God took place in their souls without noise or observation. They passed from death unto life, from a carnal to a regenerate state, by almost imperceptible advances; the transition resembled the growth of corn; was very visible when effected, though scarce sensible while accomplishing. O thou Author and Finisher of our Faith, recal us from our wanderings and re-unite us to Thyself! Whether Thou alarm us with thy terrors or allure us with thy smiles; whether Thou drive us with the scourge of conviction or draw us with the cords of love: let us in any-wise return to Thee, for Thou art our supreme good, Thou art our only happiness.
Before I proceed farther, let me ascend the terrace and take one survey of the neighbouring country. What a prospect rushes upon my sight! How vast, how various, how ’ full and plenteous with all manner of store!’ Nature’s whole wealth! What a rich and inexhaustible magazine is here, furnishing subsistence for every creature! Methinks I read in these spacious volumes a most lively comment upon that noble celebration of the divine beneficence; ‘He openeth his hand and filleth all things living with plenteousness.’
These are thy glorious works, Parent of Good, Almighty! Thine this universal frame, Thus wondrous fair! Thyself how wondrous then!
Milton.
The fields are covered deep, and stand thick with corn. They expand the milky grain to the sun, while the gales, now inclining, now raising each flexile stem, open all their ranks to the agency of his beams; which will soon impart a firm consistence to the grain, and a glossy golden hue to the ear, that they may be qualified to fill the barns of the husbandman with plenty and his heart with gladness.
Yonder lie the meadows, smoothed into a perfect level, decorated with an embroidery of the gayest flowers, and loaded with spontaneous crops* of herbage; which, converted into hay, will prove a most commodious provision for the barrenness of winter, will supply with fodder our serviceable animals, when all the verdure of the plain is killed by frosts or buried in snows. A winding stream glides along the flowery margin, and receives the image of the bending skies, and waters the roots of many a branching willow: ’tis stocked, no doubt, with variety cf fish, which afford a solitary diversion to the angler, and nourish for his table a delicious treat; nor is it the only merit of this liquid element to maintain the finny nations; it also carries cleanliness and dispenses fruitfulness wherever it rolls the crystal current.
The pastures with their verdant mounds chequer the prospect, and prepare a standing repast for our cattle; there ’ our oxen are made strong to labour, and our sheep bring forth thousands and ten thousands;’ there the horse acquires vigour for the dispatch of our business, and speed to expedite our journeys. From thence the kine bring home their udders distended with one of the richest and healthiest liquors in the world.
On several spots, a grove of trees, like some grand colonnade, erects its towering head; every one projects a friendly shade for the beasts, and
* Injussa virescunt
Gramiua Virg.
creates an hospitable lodging for the birds; every one stands ready to furnish timber for a palace, masts for a navy, or, with a more condescending courtesy, fuel for our hearths. One of them seems skirted with a wild uncultivated heath, which, like well-disposed shades in painting, throws an additional lustre on the more ornamented parts of the landscape. Nor is its usefulness like that of a foil, relative only, but real. There several valuable creatures are produced and accommodated, without any expense or care of ours. There likewise spring abundance of those herbs which assuage the smart of our wounds, and allay the fiery tumults of the fever; which impart floridity to our circulating fluids, add a more vigorous tone to our active solids, and thereby repair the decays of our enfeebled constitutions.
Nearer the houses we perceive an ample spread of branches, not so stately as the oaks, but more amiable for their annual services; a little while ago I beheld them, and all was one beauteous boundless waste of blossoms; the eye marvelled at the lovely sight, and the heart rejoiced in the prospect of autumnal plenty; but now the bloomiug maid is resigned for the useful matron; the flower is fallen, and the fruit swells out on every twig. Breathe soft, ye winds! O, spare the tender fruitage, ye surly blasts! Let the pear-tree suckle her juicy progeny, till they drop into our hands and dissolve in our mouths; let the plum hang unmolested upon her boughs, till she fatten her delicious flesh, and cloud her polished skin with blue; and as for the apples, that staple commodity of our orchards, let no injurious shocks precipitate them immaturely to the ground, till revolving suns have tinged them with a ruddy complexion, and concocted them into an cxquiske flavour. Then, what copious hoards, of what burnished rinds, and what delightful relishes will replenish the store-room! Some to present us with an early entertainment, and refresh our palates amidst the sultry heats. Some to borrow ripeness from the falling snows, and carry autumn into the depths of winter. Some to adorn the salver, make a part of the dessert, and give an agreeable * close to our feasts. Others to fill our vats with a foaming flood, which, mellowed by age, may sparkle in the glass with a liveliness and delicacy little inferior to the blood of tire grape.
I observe several small inclosures, which seem to be apprehensive of some hostile visit from the north, and therefore are defended on that quarter by a thick wood or a lofty wall; at the same time they cultivate an uninterrupted correspondence with the south, and throw open thei»” whole dimensions to its friendly warmth. One in particular lies within the reach of a distinguishing view, and proves to be a kitchen garden; it looks, methinks, like a plain and frugal republic. Whatever may resemble the pomp of courts or the ensigns of royalcy is banished from this humble community. None of the productions of the olitory affect finery, but all are habited with the very perfection of decency. Here those celebrated qualities are eminently united, the utmost simplicity with the exactest neatnesst. A skilful hand has parcelled out the whole ground into narrow beds and intervening alleys. The same discreet management has assigned to each verdant family a peculiar and distinct abode; so that there is no confusion amidst the great multiplicity, because every individual knows its proper home, and all the tribes are ranged with perfect regularity. If
* Ab ovo
Usque ad mala IT or.
t Simplex munditiis, Hor. F it be pleasing to behold their orderly situation and their modest beauties, how much more delightful to consider the advantages they yield! What a fund of choice accommodations is here! What a source of wholesome dainties! And all for the enjoyment of man. Why does the parsley, with her fiizled locks, shag the border; or why the celery, with her whitening arms, perforate the mould, but to render his soups savoury? The asparagus shoots its tapering stems to offer him the first-fruits of the season; and the artichoke spreads its turgid top to give him a treat of vegetable marrow. The tendrils of the * cucumber creep into the sun; and, though basking in its hottest rays, they secrete for their master, and ..barrel up for his use the mot cooling juices of the soil. The beans stand firm like files of embattled troops; the peas rest upon their props like so many companies of invalids, while both replenish their pods with the fatness of the earth on purpose to pour it on their owner’s table. Not one species, among all this variety of herbs, is a cumberer of the ground. Not a single plant but is good for food, or some way salutary. With so beneficent an economy are the several periods of their ministration settled, that no portion of the year is left destitute of nourishing esculents. What is
* Virgil, with great conciseness and equal propriety, describes the cucumber:
Tortusque per herbam
Cresceret in ventrem cucumis. Georg. IV.
Ivlilton has (if we admit Dr. Bentley’s alteration, which is I think in this place unquestionably just) almost translated the Latin poet,
Forth crept
The swelling gourd. Far. Lost, B. VII, 320.
still mere obliging, every portion of the year affords such esculents as are best suited to the temperature of the air and the state of our bodies. Why then should the possessor of so valuable a spot envy the condition of kings*? since he may daily walk amidst rows of peaceable and obsequious, though mute subjects; every one of whjcfe renders him some agreeable present, and pays him a -willing tribute, such as is most happily adapted both to supply his wants and to regale his taste; to furnish him at once with plenty and with pleasure.
At a distance one descries the mighty hills; they heave their huge ridges among the clouds, and look like the barriers of kingdoms, cr the boundaries of nature. Bare and deformed as their surface may appear, their bowels are fraught with inward treasures! treasures lodged fast in the quarries, or sunk deep in the mines. From thence industry may draw her implements to plough the soil, to reap the grain, and procure every necessary convenience. From thence art may fetch her materials to rear the dome, to swell the organ, and form the noblest ornaments of politer life.
On another side the great deep terminates the view. There go the ships: there is that leviathan: and there, in that world of waters, an inconceivable number of animals have their habitation. This is the capacious cistern of the universe; which admits, as into a receptacle, and distributes, as from a reservoir, whatever waters the whole globe. There’s not a fountain that gushes
* llic rarum uuoeo to dunnsolus, albaque circum Lilia, verbtnasque premens, vescumque papaver, Regum aequabat opes animis: seraque revertens Nocte domum, dapibus mensas onerabatinemptis, Virg. Georg. IV.
REFLECTIONS ON A
in the unfrequented desert, nor a rivulet that flows in the remotest continent, nor a cloud that swims in the highest regions of the firmament, but is fed by this all-replenishing source. The ocean is the grand vehicle of trade, and the uniter of distant nations. To us it is peculiarly kind, not only hs it wafts into our ports the harvest of every climate, and renders our island the centre of traffic, but also as it secures us from foreign invasions by a sort of impregnable intrenchment*.
Methinks the view of this profuse munificence inspires a secret delight, and kindles a disinterested good-will. While the * little hills ciap their hands,’ and the luxuriant ’ valleys laugh and sing;’ who can forbear catching the general joy? who is not touched with lively sensations of pleasure? While the Everlasting Father is scat-
* Whose rampart was the sea. Nahum, iii. 8.
I hope this little excursion into the country will not be looked upon as a departure from my subject; because a rural view, though no essential part of a garden, is yet a desirable appendage, and necessary to complete its beauty. As usefulness is the most valuable property which can attend any production; this is the circumstance chiefly touched upon in the survey of the landscape. Though every piece of this extensive and diversified scene is cast in the most elegant mould, yet nothing is calculated merely for show and parade. You see nothing formed in the taste of the ostentatious obelisk, or insignificant pomp of the pyramid. No such idle expenses were admitted into that consummate plan, which regulated the structure of the universe. All the decorations of nature are no less advantageous than ornamental; such as speak the Maker infinitely beneficent, as well as incomparably magnificent.
tering blessings through his whole family, and crowning the year with his goodness; who does not feel his breast overflowing with a diffusive benevolence? My heart, I must confess, beats high with satisfaction, and breathes out congratulatory wishes upon all the tenants of these rural abodes; ’ peace be within your walls, as well as plenteousness around your dwellings.’ Live, ye highly favoured, live sensible of your benefits, and thankful to your Benefactor. Look round upon these prodigiously large incomes of the fruitful soil, and call them (for you have free leave) all your own. Only let me remind you of one very important truth. Let me suggest, and may you never forget, that you are obliged to Christ Jesus for every one of these accommodations which spring from the teeming earth and the smiling skies.
1. Christ* made them, when they were not. He fetched them from utter darkness, and gave them both their being and their beauty. He created the materials of which they are composed,
* When 1 ascribe the work of creation to the Son, I would by no means be supposed to withhold the same honour from the Eternal Father and Ever-blessed Spirit. The acts of those inconceivably glorious persons are, like their essence, undivided and one. But I choose to state the point in this manner, because this is the manifest doctrine of the New Testament; is the. express belief of our church; and a most noble peculiarity of the Gospel Revelation. I choose it also, because I would take every opportunity of inculcating and celebrating the divinity of the Redeemer: a truth, which imparts an unutterable dignity to Christianity; a truth, which lays an immoveable foundation for all the comfortable hopes of a Christian; a truth, which will render the and moulded them into this endless multiplicity of amiable forms and useful substances. He arrayed the heavens with a vesture of the milde3t blue, and clothed the earth id a livery of the gayest green His pencil streaked, and mis breath perfumed whatever is beautiful or frarnt in the universe. His strength set fast the mountains; His goodness garnished the vales; and the same touch which healed the leper, wrought the whole visible system into tins complete perfection.
2. Christ recovered them w en they were forfeited. — By Adam’s sin we lost our right to the comforts of life and fruits of the ground. His disobedience was the most impious and horrid treason against the Kin? of kings. Consequently his whole patrimony became confiscated: as well the portion of temporal good things settled upon the human race during their minority, as that everlasting heritage reserved for their enjoyment when they should come to full age. But the ’ seed of the woman’ instantly interposing, took off the attainder, and redeemed rue alienated inheritance,
mystery of our redemption, the wonder and delight of eternity: and with this truth, every one will observe, my assertion is inseparably connected.
If any one questions whether this be the doctrine of our church, let the creed, which we repeat in our most solemn devotions, determine his doubt: I believe,’ says that form of sound words, * in one Lord Jesus Christ, very Cod of very God, by whom all things were marie.’ If it be farther inquired, from whence the Nicene Fathers derived this article of their faith? I answer, from the writings of the beloved Disciple who lay on the Saviour’s bosom, and of that great Apostle who had been caught up into the third heaven. John, i. 3. Coloss»i.l6.
The first Adam being disinherited, the second Adam* was appointed heir of all things, visible as well as invisible. And we hold our possession of the former, we expect an instateraent in the
latter, purely by virtue of our alliance to Him, and our union with Him.
3. Christ upholds them, which would otherwise tumble into ruin. By Him, says the Oracle of Inspiration, all things consistt. His finger rolls the seasons round, and presides over all the celestial revolutions. His finder winds up the wheels, and impels every spring of vegetative nature. In
* Heb. i. 2. — In this sense at least, Christ is the Saviour of all men. The former and latter rain; the precious fruits of the earth; food to eat, and raiment to put on; — all these he purchased, even for his irreclaimable enemies. They eat of his bread, who lift up their heel against Him.
We learn from hence, in what a peculiar and endearing light the Christian is to contemplate the things that are seen. Heathens might discover an eternal power and infinite wisdom in the structure of the. universe; heathens might acknowledge a most stupendous liberality in the unreserved grant of the whole fabric, with all its furniture, to the service of man: but the Christian should ever keep in mind his forfeiture of them, and the price paid to redeem them. He should receive the gifts of indulgent Providence, as the Israelites received their law, from the hand of a Mediator.- Or rather, to him they should come, not only issuing from the stores of an unbounded bounty, but swimming (as it were) in that crimson tide which streamed from Immanuel’s veins.
t Col. i. 17. I beg leave to subjoin St. Chrysostom’s pertinent and beautiful note upon the passage; by which it will appear, that the sentiment of these lections is not merely a private opinion, but the a word, the whole weight of the creation rests upon his mighty arm, and receives the whole harmony of its motion from his unerring eye. This habitable globe, with all its rich appendages and fine machinery, could no more continue than they could create themselves. Start they would into instant confusion, or drop into their primitive nothing, did not his power support, and his wisdom regulate them every moment. In conformity to his will, they subsist steadfast and invariable in their orders, and wait only for his sovereign nod, to ’ fall away like water that runneth apace.’
4. Christ * actuates them, which would otherwise be lifeless and insignificant. Pensioners they are, constant pensioners on his bounty; and borrow their all from his fulness. He only has life; and whatever operates, operates by an emanation from vhis all-sufficiency. Does the grape refresh you with its enlivening juices? It is by a warrant received, and virtue derived, from the Redeemer. Does bread strengthen your heart, and prove the staff of your life? Remember, that it is by the
vowed belief of the primitive church. TovrscTiVf sajs the eloquent father, eig o-utov xpe/ixtxTOu r, wav-T(X)V VTrOS-TOLGTig’ 0V fXOVOV <XVT0£ 0CUT0C EX TOU jULfy
cvrog ug to eivoti srapvjyayev, aXXa x<x) avrog ocvtoc. cuyxparei vw ware olv a7rocr7rao-$ry rrlg avrcvwpovoiG!.si a7roXwXe xai ZiefyQtxpTOLi.
* John v. 17. My Father worketh hitherto, and I work: or, I exert that unremitting and unwearied energy which is the life of the creation. Thus the words are paraphrased by a masterly expositor, who has illustrated the life of our blessed Lord in the most elegant taste of criticism, with the most amiable spirit of devotion, and without any mixture of the malignant leaven or low singularities of a party. See the Family Expcsitor, Vol. I. Sect. 47.
Saviour’s appointment and through the efficacy of’ his operation. You are charmed with his melody, when the ’ time of the singing of birds is come and the voice of the nightingale is heard in your land.’ You taste his goodness in the luscious fig, the melting peach, and the musky flavour of the apricot. You smell his sweetness in the opening honeysuckle and every odoriferous shrub.
Could these creatures speak for themselves, they would doubtless disclaim all sufficiency of their own, and ascribe the whole honour to their Maker. ‘We are servants,’ would they say, ’ of Him, who died for you. Cisterns only, dry cisterns in ourselves, we transmit to mortals no more than the uncreated fountain transfuses into us. Think not that from any ability of our own we furnish you with assistance, or administer to your comfort, ‘lis the divine energy, the divine energy alone that works in us and does you good. We serve you, O ye sons of men, that you may love Him who placed us in these stations. O! love the Lord, therefore, all ye who are supported by our ministry, or else we shall * groan with indignation and regret at your abuse of our services. Use us, and welcome, for we are yours, if ye are Christ’s. Crop our choicest beauties; rifle all our treasures; accommodate yourselves with our most valuable qualities, only let us be incentives to your gratitude, and motives to your obedience.’
Having surveyed the spacious sky, and sent a glance round the inferior creation; ’tis time to descend from this eminence, and confine my attention to the beautiful spot below — Here Nature, always pleasing, every where lovely, appears with peculiar attractions. Yonder she seems dressed in her deshabille; grand, but irregular; here, she
* Rom. viii. 12. F2 calls in her handmaid Art, and shines in all the delicate ornaments which the nicest cultivation is able to convey. Those are her common apartments where she lodges her ordinary guests; this is her cabinet of curiosities, where she entertains her intimate acquaintance. My eye shall often expatiate over those scenes of universal fertility: my feet shall sometimes brush through the thicket, or traverse the lawn, or stroll along the forest glade: but to this delightful retreat shall be my chief resort. Thither will I make excursions, but here will I dwell.
If, from my low procedure, I may form an allusion to the most exalted practices,- I would observe upon this occasion, that the celebrated Erasmus, and our judicious Locke, having trod the circle of the sciences and ranged through the whole extent of human literature, at length betook themselves solely to the Bible. Leaving the sages of antiquity, they sat incessantly at the feet of Jesus. Wisely they withdrew from that immense multiplicity of learning, from those endless tracts of amusing erudition, where noxious weeds are mixed with wholesome herbs, where is generally a much larger growth of prickly shrubs than of fruitful boughs. They spent their most mature hours in those hallowed gardens which God’s own wisdom planted; which God’s own Spirit watereth; and in which God’s own Son is continually walking; where lie meeteth those that seek Him, and revealeth to them the glories of his person and the riches of his goodness.
Thus would 1 finish the remainder of my days! Having just tasted (what they call) the politer studies, I would now devote my whole application to the lively oracles. From other pursuits I might glean perhaps a few scattered fragments of low, of lean, of unsatisfactory instruction. From this, I trust to reap a harvest of the sublimest truths, the noblest improvements, and the purest joys*. Waft me then, O! waft my mind to Sion’s consecrated bowers Let my thoughts perpetually rove through the awfully pleasing walks of inspiration. Here grow those heaven-born plants, the trees of life and knowledge, whose ambrosial fruits we now may * take and eat, and live for ever.’ Here flow those precious streams of grace and righteousness, whose living waters ’ whosoever drinks shall thirst no more.’ And, what can the fables of Grecian song, or the finest pages of Roman eloquence — what can they exhibit in any degree comparable to these matchless prerogatives of Revelation? Therefore, though i should not dislike to pay a visit now and then to my heathen masters, I would live with the prophets and apostles. With those, 1 would carry on some occasional correspondence; but these should be my bosom-friends, my inseparable companions, ’ my delight, and my counsellors.’
What sweets are these, which so agreeably salute my nostrils? They are the breath of the flowers, the incense of the garden. How liberally does the jessamine dispense her odoriferous riches! How deliciously has the woodbine embalmed this morning walk! The air is all perfume. And is not this another most engaging argument to forsake the bed of sloth? Who would lie dissolved in senseless slumbers, while so many breathing sweets invite him to a feast of fragaucy? Especially considering, that the advancing day will exhale the volatile dainties. A fugitive treat they are, prepared only for the wakeful and industrious: whereas, when the sluggard lifts his heavy eyes, the flowers will droop, their fine scents be dissi-
* Quicquid docetur, Veritas; quicquid prtecipitur, bonitas; quicquid promittitur, fclicitas.
pated, and, instead of this refreshing humidity,
the air will become a kind of liquid fire.
With this very motive, heightened by a representation of the most charming pieces of morning scenery, the parent of mankind awakes his lovely consort. There is such a delicacy in the choice, and so much life in the description, of these rural images, that I cannot excuse myself without repeating the whole passage. Whisper it, some friendly genius, in the ear of every one who is now sunk in sleep, and lost to all these refined gratifications!
Awake: the morning shines, and the fresh field Calls you: ye lose the prime, to mark how spring The tended plants, how blows the citron grove; What drops the myrrh, and what the balmy reed; How nature paints her colours; how the bee Sits on the bloom extracting liquid sweets*.
How delightful is this fragrance! It is distributed in the nicest proportion; neither so strong as to oppress the organs, nor so faint as to elude them. We are soon cloyed at a sumptuous banquet; but this pleasure never loses its poignancy, never palls the appetite Here luxury itself is innocent; or- rather, in this case, indulgence is incapable of excess. This balmy entertainment not only regales the sense, but cheers the very soul t; and, instead of clogging, elates its powers. It puts me in mind of that ever memorable sacrifice which was once made in behalf of offending mortals. I mean the sacrifice of the blessed Jesus, when He offered up himself to God for a sweet-smelling savour.’ Such the Holy Spirit styles that
* Milt. Par. Lost, B. V. 20.
t Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart.
Prov. xxvii. Q.
wonderful oblation; as if no image in the whole sensible creation was so proper to give us an idea of the ineffable satisfaction which the Father of Mercies conceived from that unparalleled atonement, as the pleasing sensations which such rich perfumes are capable of raising. 4 thousands of rams, and ten thousands of rivers of oil,’ from an apostate world, the most submissive acknowledgments, added to the most costly offerings, from men of defiled hands and unclean lips, what could they have effected? A prophet represents the ‘High and Lofty One that inhabiteth Eternity,’ turning himself away from such filthy rags, turning himself away with a disdainful abhorrence *, as from the noisome steams of a dunghill; but in Christ’s immaculate holiness, in Christ’s consummate obedience, in Christ’s most precious blood-shedding, with what unimaginable complacency does justice rest satisfied, and vengeance acquiesce! All thy works, O thou surety for ruined sinners! all thy sufferings, O thou slaughter’d Lamb of God! as well as all thy garments, O thou bridegroom of thy church! smell of myrrh, aloes, and cassia t! They are infinitely more gra’eful to the eternal Godhead, than the choicest exhalations of the garden, than all the odors of the spicy east, can be to the human nostrils.
As the altar of old sanctified the gift, so this is the great propitiation which recommends the obnoxious, persons and unprofitable services of the believing world; in this may my soul be interested! by this may it he reconciled to the Father! There is such a leprous depravity cleaving to my nature, as pollutes whatever I perform: my most profound adorations and sincerest acts of religion must not presume to challenge a re-
* Amos, v. £1, 2?. t Psalm xlv. 8.
ward, but humbly implore forgiveness *: renouncing therefore myself in every instance of duty, disclaiming all shadow of confidence t in any deeds of my own, may I now and evermore be accepted through the Beloved!
What colours, what charming colours are here! these so nobly bold, and those so delicately languid! what a glow is enkindled in some, what a gloss shines upon others! in one, methinks, I see the ruby with her bleeding radiance, in another the sapphire with her sky-tinctured blue, in all such an exquisite richness of dyes, as no other
* A writer of distinguished superiority thus addresses the great Observer of actions and Searcher of hearts, and vindicates my sentiments while he so justly and beautifully utters his own:
Look down, great God, with pity’s softest eye, On a poor breathing particle in dust. His crimes forgive, forgive his virtues too, Those smaller faults, half converts to the right. Night-Thoughts, No. IX.
t See page 44 and 45, in the second edition of a most candid and evangelical little treatise, called ‘Christianity the great Ornament of Human Life:’ — * If Christians happily avoid the dangerous extreme, and too often fatal rock, of a dead, fruitless faith on the one hand, he (i. e. Satan) will endeavour, by all kind of plausible insinuations, to split them on the opposite, viz. spiritual pride, ostentation, and dependence on their works, as if these were the meritorious or procuring cause of all true peace, hope, consolation, and divine acceptance: now this self-dependence may be ranked among the most dangerous of the infernal politics, because the fatal poison lies deep, and too often undiBcerned.>
FLOWER-GARDEN. Ill
set of paintings in the universe can boast *. With what a masterly skill is every one of the varying tints disposed! Here they seem to be thrown on with an easy dash of security and freedom, there they are adjusted by the nicest touches of art and accuracy; those which form the ground are always so judiciously chosen, as to heighten the lustre of the superadded figures, while the verdure of the impalement, or the shadings of the foliage, impart new liveliness to the whole: indeed, whether they are bleuded or arranged, softened or contrasted, they are manifestly under the conduct of a taste that never mistakes, a felicity that never falls short of the very perfection of elegance. Fine, inimitably fine, is the texture of the web on which these shining treasures are displayed. What are the labours of the Fersian looms, or the boasted commodities of Brussels, compared with these curious manufactures of nature? Compared with these, the most admired chintses lose their reputation, evtn superfine cambrics appear coarse as canvass in their presence.
What a cheering argument does our Saviour derive from hence, to strengthen our affiance in God! He directs us to learn a lesson of heaven-depending faith from every bird that wings the air, and from every flower that blossoms in the field. If Providence, with unremitted care, supports those inferior creatures, and arrays these insensible beings with so much splendor, surely He
Who can paint
Like nature? Can imagination boast,
Amid his gay creation, hues like these?
And can he mix them with that matchless skill,
And lay them on so delicately fine,
And lose them in each other, as appears
In ev’ry bud that blows i Thorns. Spring.
will in no wise withhold from his elect children 1 bread to eat, and raiment to put on.’ Ye faithful followers of the Lamb, dismiss every low anxietyrelating to the needful sustenance of life. He that feeds the ravens, from an inexhaustible magazine: He that paints the plants with such surpassing elegance: in short, He that provides so liberally both for the animal and vegetable parts of his creation, will not, cannot neglect his own people. Fear not, little flock, ye peculiar objects of Almighty love! it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you a kingdom*. And, if He freely gives you an everlasting kingdom hereafter, is it possible to suppose that He will deny you any necessary conveniencies here?
One cannot forbear reflecting in this place, on the too prevailing humour of being fond and ostentatious of dress t. What an abject and mis-
* Luke xii. 32.
i Mr. Addison has a fine remark on a female warrior celebrated by Virgil. He observes that, with all her other great qualities, this little foible mingled itself; because, as the poet relates, an intemperate fondness for a rich and spltndid suit of armour betrayed her into ruin. In this circumstance our critic discovers a moral concealed; this he admires as a neat, though oblique satire, on that trifling passion. Spect. Vol. I. No. 15.
I would refer it to the judicious reader, whether there is not a beauty of the same kind, but touched with a more masterly hand, in the song or Deborah. — Speaking of bisera’s mother, the sacred eucharistic ode represents her, as anticipating in her fond fancy, the victory ot her son, and indulging the following soliloquy: — ‘Have they not sped? Have they not divided the prey? To Sisera a prey of divers colours, a prey of divers colours of needle-work; of divers colours of needle work on taken ambition is this! How unworthy the dignity of immortal, and the wisdom of rational beings! Especially, since these little productions of the earth have indisputably the pre-eminence in such outward embellishments. Go, clothe thyself with purple and fine linen, trick thyself up in all the gay attire which the shuttle or the needle can
both sides, meet for the necks of them that take the spoil? She takes no notice of the signal service which her hero would do to his country, by quelling so dangerous an insurrection. She never reflects on the present acclamations, the future advancement, and the eternal renown, which are the tribute usually paid to a conqueror’s merit. She can conceive, it seems, nothing greater than to be clad in an embroidered vesture, and to trail along the ground a robe of the richest dyes. This is, in her imagination, the most lordly spoil he can win, the most stately trophy he can erect. It is also observable how she dwells upon the trivial circumstance, reiterating it again and again; it has so charmed her ignoble heart, so entirely engrossed her little views, that she can think of nothing else, speak of nothing else, and can hardly ever desist from the darling topic. Is not this a keen though delicately couched censure, on that poor, contemptible, groveling taste, which is enamoured with silken finery, and makes the attributes of a butterfly the idol of its affections?
How conspicuous is the elevated and magnificent spirit of that venerable mother in Israel, when viewed in comparison with the low, the despicable turn of this Canaantish lady! Such strong and beautiful contrasts are, I think, some of the most striking excellencies of poetic painting, and in no book are they more frequently used, or expressed with greater life, than in the sacred volumes of Inspiration.
furnish; yet know, to the mortification of thy vanity, that the native elegance of a common daisy* eclipses all this elaborate finery. Nay, wert thou decked like some illustrious princess on her coronation day, in all the splendor of royal apparel; couldst thou equal even ^oiomon in the height of his magnificence and glory, yet would the meanest among the flowery populace outshine thee; every discerning eve would give the preference to these beauties of the ground t. Scorn then to borrow thy recommendations from a neat disposition of threads, and a curious arrangement of colours: assume a becoming greatness of temper: let thy endowments be of the immortal kind: study to be all glorious within: be clothed with humility: wear the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit J: to say all in a word, put on the Lord Jesus Christ §: let his blood be sprinkled upon thy conscience, and it shall be whiter than the virgin snows: let his righteousness, like a
* Peaceful and lowly in their native soil, They neither know to spin, nor care to toil, Yet with confess’d magnificence deride Our mean attire and impotence of pride.
Prior, t Mr. Cowley, with his usual brilliancy of imagination, styles them Stars of Earth.
X How beautifully does the prophet describe the furniture of a renewed and heavenly mind under the similitude of a rich and complete suit of apparel! 1 will greatly rejoice in the Lord: my soul shall be joyful in my God, for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation: he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. Isai. lxi. 10,
§ Rom. xiii, 14.
spotless robe, adorn thy inner man; and thou shalt be amiable, even in the most distinguishing eye of God. Let his blessed ppint dwell in thy heart; and, under his sanctifying operations, thou shalt be made paitakerofa Divine Nature.
These aie leal excellencies; truly noble accomplishments the.-e. In this manner be arrayed, be beautified; and thou wilt not find a rival in the feathers of a peacock, or the foliation of a tulip. These will ex:«lt titt-e far above the low pretensions of lace and embroidery Ihese will prepare thee to stand in the beatific presence, nd to take thy seat among the angels of light.
What an enchanting situation is this! One can scarce be melancholy within the atmosphere of flowers. Such lively hues and delicious odors, not only address themselves agreeably to the senses, but touch, with a surprising delicacy, the sweetest movements of the mind.
To the heart inspiring
Vernal * delight and joy Milt. B. IV.
* ‘I would have my reader endeavour to moralize this natural pleasure of the soul, and to improve this vernal delight, as Milton calls it, into a Christian virtue. When we find ourselves inspired with this pleasing instinct, this secret satisfaction and complacency arising from the beauties of the creation, let us consider to whom we stand indebted for all these entertainments of sense, and who it is that thus opens his hand and fills the woild with good. Such an habitual disposition of mind consecrates every field and wood, turns an ordinary walk into a morning or evening sacrifice, and will improve those transient gleams, which naturally brighten up and refresh the soul on such occasions, into an inviolable and perpetual state of bliss and happiness.’ Spect. Vol. V. No. 394.
How often have I felt them dissipate the gloom of thought, and transfuse a sudden gaiety through the dejected spirit! I cannot wonder that kings descend from their thrones to walk amidst blooming ivory and gold, or retire from the most sumptuous feast, to be recreated with the more refined sweets of the garden. I cannot wonder that queens forego for a while the compliments of a nation, to receive the tribute of the parterre; or withdraw from all the glitter of a court, to be attended with the more splendid equipage of a bed of flowers. But, if this be so pleasing, what transporting pleasure must arise from the fruition of uncreated Excellency! O, what unknown delight to enter into thy immediate presence, most blessed Lord God! to see thee *, thou King of Heaven, and Lord of Glory, no longer ’ through a glass darkly, but face to face!’ to have all thy goodness, all thy greatness, shine before us; and be made glad for ever with the brightest discovery of thy perfections, with the ineffable joy of thy countenance!
This we cannot bear, in our present imperfect state. The effulgence of unveiled Divinity would dazzle a mortal sight. Our feeble faculties would be overwhelmed with such a fulness of superabundant bliss, and must lie oppressed under such an
* Isaiah represents the felicity of the righteous, in the everlasting world, by this elegant and amiable image; ‘Thine eyes shall see the King in his beauty.’ Milton touches the same subject, with wonderful elevation and majesty of thought:
. — — — They walk with God,
High in salvation, and the climes of bliss:
words, which, like the riery car, almost transport our affections to those glorious abodes. Isai.xxxiii. 17. Milt. B. XI. TOT.
exceeding great, eternal weight of glory. But when this corruptible hath put on incorruption, the powers of the soul will be greatly invigorated; and these earthly tabernacles will be transformed into the likeness of Christ’s glorious body. Then, though ’ the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed *,’ when the Lord of Hosts is revealed from heaven, yet shall his faithful people be enabled to see Him as He is t.
Here then, my wishes, here be fixed. Be this your determined and invariable aim. Here, my affections, here give a loose to your whole ardor. Cry out in the language of inspiration: ‘This one thing have 1 desired of the Lord, which, with incessant earnestness I will require, — that I may dwell in the celestial house of the Lord all the days of my future life, to behold the fair beauty of the Lord J, and to contemplat3 with wonder and adoration, with unspeakable and everlasting rapture, all the attributes of the incomprehensible Godhead.’
Solomon, a most penetrating judge of human nature, knowing how highly mankind is charmed with the fine qualities of flowers, has figured out the blessed Jesus, that fairest among ten thousand,’ by these lovely representatives. He styles him ‘The rose of Sharon §,’ and ‘The lily of the valleys ||;’ like the first, full of delights and com-
* Isai. xxiv. C3. t 1 John iii. 2.
I Psal. xxvii. -i. § Cant. ii. 1.
Mai us ut arboribus decori est, ut vitibus uvze, Utque rosa? campis, ut lilia vallibus alba, Sic Christus decus omne suis. —
By the lily of the valleys, I apprehend, is meant, not the flower which commonly passes under that denomination, and is comparatively mean; but the grand, majestic garden lily, growmunicable graces; like the last, exalted in majesty, and complete in beauty. In that sacred pastoral, he ranges the creation, borrows its most finished foims, and dips his pencil in its choicest dyes, to present us with a sketch of the amiableness of his person. His amiableness, who is the light of the world, the glory of his church, the only hope, the sovereign consolation of sinners, and exalted, infinitely exalted, not only above the sublimest comparison, but even ’ above all blessing and praise,’ May I also make the same heavenly use of all sublunary enjoyments! Whatever is pleasurable or charming below, let it raise my desire to those delectable objects which are above; which will yield, not partial, but perfect felicity; not transient, but never ending satisfaction and joy. Yes, my soul, let these beauties in miniature always remind thee of that glorious person, in whom ’ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead, bodily.’ Let these little emanations teach thee to thirst after the eternal fountain. O! may the creatures be thy constant clue to the Creator! For this is a certain truth, and deserves thy frequent recollection, demands thy most attentive consideration, — that the whole compass of finite perfection is only a faint ray *, shot from that immense source
ing in a rich irriguous soil, where it flourishes in the most ample manner, and arrives at the highest perfection. The circumstance of the valleys, added by the sacred writer, is significant not of the species, but of the place. This is by far the noblest interpretation, and most exactly suitable to the spiritual sense, which intimates, that the blessed Jesus delights to dwell, by the communications of his Spirit, in humble hearts. CZl’pDtfn IWltP Lilium vallibus gaudens.
* Thou sitt’st above all heav’ns
To us invisible, or dimly seen
—is only a small drop, derived from that inexhaustible ocean — of all good.
What a surprising variety is observable among the flowery tribes! How has the bountiful hand of Providence diversified these nicest pieces of his workmanship; added the charms of an endless novelty to all their other perlections! A constant uniformity would soon render the entertainment tiresome or insipid; therefore every species is formed on a separate plan, and exhibits something entirely new. Hie fashion spreads not from family to family; but every one has a mode of its own, which is truly original. The most cursory glance perceives an apparent difference, as well as a peculiar delicacy, in the airs and habits, the attitude and lineaments, of every distinct class.
Some rear their heads with a majestic mien, and overlook, like sovereigns or nobles, the whole parterre. Others seem more moderate in their aims, and advance only to Phe middle stations; a genius turned for heraldry might term them the gentry of the border. While others, free from all aspiring views, creep unambitiously on the ground, and look like the commonalty of the kind. Some are intersected with elegant stripes, or studded with radiant spots. Some affect to be genteely powdered, or neatly fringed: while others are plain in their aspect/unaffected in their dress, and content to please with a naked simplicity. Some assume the monarch’s purple; some look most becoming in the virgin’s white; but black, doleful black, has no admittance into the wardrobe of Spring. The weeds of mourning would be a manifest indecorum, when nature holds an universal festival. iphe would, now, inspire none
In these thy lowest works; yet these declare Thy goodness beyond thought, and pow’r divine. Milt, Eook V.
but delightful ideas; and therefore always makes her appearance in some amiable suit *. Here stands a wajrior, clad with crimson; there sits a magistrate, robed in scarlet; and yonder struts a pretty fellow, that seems to have dipped his plumes in the rainbow, and glitters in all the gay colours of that resplendent arch. Some rise into a curious cup, or fall into a set of beautiful bells. Some spread themselves in a swelling tuft, or croud into a delicious cluster. In some, the predominant stain softens by the gentlest diminutions, till it has even stole away from itself. The eye is amused at the agreeable delusion; and we wonder to find ourselves insensibly decoyed into a quite different lustre. In others, you would think the fine tinges were emulous of pre-eminence. Disdaining to mingle, they confront one another with the resolution of rivals, determined to dispute the prize of beauty; while each is improved by the opposition into the highest vivacity of complexion.
How manifold are thy works +, O Lord! multiplied even to a prodigy. Yet in wisdom, consummate wisdom, hast thou made them all. How I admire the vastness of the contrivance, and the exactness of the execution! Man, feeble man, with difficulty accomplishes a single work. Hardly, and after many efforts, does he arrive at a tolerable imitation of some one production of nature. But the Almighty artist spoke millions of substances into instantaneous being, the whole collection wonderfully various, and each individual completely perfect. Repeated experiments generally, I might say, always, discover errors or defects in our happiest inventions. Nay, what wins our approbation at the present hour or in this particular place, is very probably, in some remote
* — Nunc formosissimus annus. Virg.
t Psalm civ. 24.
FLOWER-GARDEN. 12i
period or some distant clime, treated with contempt. Whereas, these fine structures have pleased every taste, in every country, for almost six thousand years. Nor has any fault been detected in the original plan, nor any room left for the least improvement from the first model*. All our performances, the more minutely they are scanned, the more imperfect they appear. With regard to these delicate objects, the more we search into their properties, the more we are ravished with their graces. They are sure to disclose fresh strokes of the most masterly skill, in proportion to the attention with which they are examined.
Nor is the simplicity of the operation less astonishing than the accuracy of the workmanship or the infinitude of the effects. Should you ask, ‘Where and what are the materials which beau* tify the blooming world? What rich tints, what splendid dyes, what stores of shining crions, stand by the Heavenly Limner when he paints the robe of nature?’ ‘lis answered, His poweiful pencil needs no such costly apparatus. A single principle, under his conducting hand, branches out into an immensity of the most varied and most finished forms. The moisture of the earth and of the circumambient air, passed through proper strainers, and disposed in a range of pellucid tubes; this performs all the wonders, and produces all the beauties of vegetation. This creeps along the fibres of the low-spread moss, and climbs to the very tops of the lofty-waving cedars. This, attracted by the root, and circulating through invisible canals; this bursts into gems, expands itself into leaves, and clothes the forest with all
* Eccles. iii. 14* I know that whatsoever God doth, it shall be for ever; nothing can be put to it, ncr any thing taken from it.
G it* verdant honours. This one plain and simple cause gives birth to all the charms which deck the youth and maturity of the year*. This blushes in the early hepatica, and flames in the late advancing poppy. This reddens into blood in the veins of the mulberry, and attenuates itself into leafen gold, to create a covering for the quince. This breathes in all the fragrant gales of our garden, and weeps odorous gum in the groves of Arabia. So wonderful is our Creator in counsel, and so excellent in workingt!
In a grove of tulips, or a knot of pinks, one perceives a difference in almost every individual. Scarce any two are turned and tinctured exactly alike. Each allows himself a little particularity in his dress, though all belong to one family: so that they are various, and yet the same. A pretty emblem this, of the smaller differences between Protastant Christians. There are modes in religion which admit of variation, without prejudice to sound faith or real holiness; just as the drapery on these pictures of the spring may be formed after a variety of patterns, without blemishing their beauty or altering their nature. Be it so then, that in some points of inconsiderable consequence several of our brethren dissent; yet let us all live amicably and sociably together, tor
* ‘When every several effect has a particular separate cause, this gives no pleasure to the spectator, as not discovering contrivance. But that work is beheld with admiration and delight, as the result of deep counsel, which is complicated in its parts, and yet simple in its operations; where a great variety of effects are seen to arise from one principle operating uniformly.’
Abernethy on the Attributes,
Isai. xxviii. CQ.
we harmonize in principals, though we vary in punctilios. Let us join in conversation, and intermingle interests; discover no estrangement of behaviour, and cherish no alienation of affection. If any strife subsists, let it be to follow our divine Master most closely in humility of heart and unblameableness of life: let it be to serve one another most readily in all the kind offices of a cordial friendship. Thus shall we be united, though distinguished; united in the same grand fundamentals, though distinguished by some small circumstantials; united in one important bond of brotherly love, though distinguished by some slighter peculiarities of sentiment.
Between Christians, whose judgments disagree only about a form of prayer or manner of worship, I apprehend there is no more essential disference than between flowers which bloom from the same kind of seed, but happen to be somewhat diversified in the mixture of their colours. Whereas if one denies the divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ, and degrades the incarnate God to the meanness of a mere creature; if another cries up the worthiness of human works, and depreciates the alone-meritorious righteousness of the glorious Mediator; if a third addresses the incommunicable honours to a finite being, and bows to the image, or prays to the saint — these are errors extremely derogatory to the Redeemer’s dignity, and not a little prejudicial to the comfort of his people: against these to remonstrate, against these to urge every argument and use every dissuasive, bespeaks not the censorious bigot, but the friend of truth and the lover of mankind. Whereas to stand neuter and silent while such principles are propagated, would be an instance of criminal remissness rather than of Christian moderation. For the persons, we will not fail to maintain a tender compassion; we will not cease to put up
12-i REFLECTIONS ON A
earnest intercessions; we will also acknowledge and love whatever is excellent and amiable in their character; yet we dare not subscribe their creed; we cannot remit our assiduous but kind endeavours, if by any means we may reconcile them to a more scriptural belief and a purer worship*.
Another circumstance recommending and endearing the flowery creation, is their regular succession. They make not their appearance all at once, but in an orderly rotation. While a proper number of these obliging retainers are in waiting, the others abscond; but hold themselves in a posture of service, ready to take their turn, and fill each his respective station the instant it becomes vacant. — The snowdrop, foremost of the lovely train, breaks her way through the frozen soil, in order to present her early compliments to her Lord: dressed in the robe of innocency, she steps forth, fearless of danger, long before the trees have ventured to unfold their leaves, even while the icicles are pendent on our houses. — Next peeps out the crocus, but cautiously, and with an air of timidity. She hears the howling blasts, and skulks close to her low situation.
* In some former editions, I expressed myself on this point unwarily and harshly. But my meaning and real sentiments were no other than those represented above. The reader, from such unguarded intimations, might too naturally be led to conclude, that the author avows, and would stir up, a spirit of persecution. But this is a method of dealing with opponents in religious doctrines, which l.e disclaims as absurd, and abhors as iniquitous. He is for no force, but that of rational conviction; fcr no constraint, but that of affectionate persuasion. Thus, if you please, compel them to come in. Luke xiv. 23.
Afraid she seems to make large excursions from her root, while so many ruffian winds are abroad, and scouring along the aether. — Nor is the violet last in this shining embassy of the year; which, with all the embellishments that would grace a royal garden, condescends to line our hedges, and grow at the feet of briers. Freely, and without any solicitation, she distributes the bounty of her emissive sweets; while herself, with an exemplary humility, retires from sight, seeking rather to administer pleasure than to win admiration* — Emblem, expressive emblem, of those modest virtues, which delight to bloom in obscurity, which extend a cheering influence to multitudes who are scarce acquainted with the source of their comforts! Motive, engaging motive, to that ever-active beneficence, which stays not for the importunity of the distressed, but anticipates their suit, and prevents them with the blessings of its goodness ! — The poor polyanthus, that lately adorned the border with her sparkling beauties, and, transplanted into our windows, gave us a fresh entertainment, is now no more. I saw her complexion fade, I perceived her breath decay, till at length she expired, and dropt into her grave.’ — Scarce have we sustained this loss, but in comes the auricula, and more than retrieves it. Arrayed she comes, in a splendid variety of amiable forms; with an eye of crystal, and garments of the most glossy satin; exhaling perfume, and powdered with silver. A very distinguished procession this! the favourite care of the florist! Scarce one among them but is dignified with a character of renown, or has the honour to represent some celebrated toast. But these also, notwithstanding their illustrious titles, have exhausted their whole stock of fragrance, and are mingled with the
Prodesse quam conspici.
meanest dust. — Who could forbear grieving at their departure, did not the tulips begin to raise themselves on their fine wands or stately stalks? They flush the parterre with one of the gayest dresses that blooming nature wears. Did ever beau or belle make so gaudy an appearance in a birth-night suit? Here one may behold the innocent wantonness of beauty. Here she indulges a thousand freaks, and sports herself in the most charming diversity of colours. Yet 1 should wrong her, were 1 to call her a coquet, because she plays her lovely changes, not to enkindle dissolute affections, but to display her Creator’s glory. — Soon arises the anemone, encircled at the bottom with a spreading robe, and rounded at the top into a beautiful dome. In its looselyflowing mantle, you may observe a noble negligence; in its gently-bending tufts, the nicest symmetry. I would term it the fine gentleman of the garden, because it seems to have learnt the singular address of uniting simplicity with refinement, of reconciling art and ease. — The same month has the merit of producing the ranunculus. All bold and graceful, it expands the riches of its foliage, and acquires by degrees the loveliest enamel in the world. As persons of intrinsic worth disdain the superficial arts of recommendation practised by fops, so this lordly flower scorns to borrow any of its excellence from powders and essences. It needs no such attractives to render it the darling of the curious, being sufficiently engaging from the elegance of its figure, the radiant variety of its tinges, and a certain superior dignity of aspect. — Methinks nature improves in her operations. Her latest strokes are most masterly. To crown the collection, she introduces the carnation, which captivates every eye with a noble spread of graces, and charms another sense with a profusion of exquisite odors.
This single flower has centered ia itself the perfections of all the preceding. The moment it appears, it so commands our attention that we scarce regret the absence of the rest. — The gillyflower, like a real friend, attends you through all the vicissitudes and alterations of the season; while others make a transient visit only, this is rather an inhabitant than a guest in your gardens; adds fidelity to complaisance.
It is in vain to attempt a catalogue of these amiable gifts. There is an endless multiplicity in their characters, yet. an invariable order in their approaches. Every month, almost every week, has its peculiar ornaments; not servilely copying the works of its predecessor, but forming, still forming, and still executing some new design. So lavish is the fancy, yet so exact is the process, of nature.
Here let me stand a while to contemplate this distribution of flowers through the several period of the year. Were they all to blossom together, there would be at once a promiscuous throng, and at once a total privation. We should scarce have an opportunity of adverting to the dainty qualities of half, and must soon lose the agreeable company of them all. But now, since every species has a separate post to occupy, and a distinct interval for appearing, we can take a leisurely and minute survey of each succeeding set. We can view and review their forms, enter into a more intimate acquaintance with their charming accomplishments, and receive all those pleasing services which they are commissioned to yield. Thb remarkable piece of economy is productive of another very valuable effect: it not only places, in the most advantageous light, every particular community, but is also a sure provisionary resource against the frailty of the whole nation: or, to speak more truly, it renders the flowery tribes a sort of immortal corps*. For though some are continually dropping, yet by this expedient others are as continually rising, to beautify our borders, and prolong the entertainment.
What goodness is this, to provide such a series of gratifications for mankind! both to diversify, and perpetuate, the fine collation! to take care that our paths should be in a manner incessantly strewed with flowers! And what wisdom, to bid every one of these insensible beings know the precise juncture for their coming forth! Insomuch that no actor on a stage can be more exact in performing his part, can make a more regular entry, or a more punctual exit.
Who emboldens the daffodil to venture abroad in February, and to trust her flowering gold with inclement and treacherous skies? Who informs the various tribes of fruit-bearing blossoms, that vernal suns and a more genial warmth are fittest for their delicate texture ( Who teaches the clove to stay till hotter beams are prepared, to infuse a spicy richness into her odors, and tincture her complexion with the deepest crimson? Who disposes these beautiful troops into such orderly bodies; retarding some, and accelerating others? “Who lias instructed them to file off with such perfect regularity, as soon as the duty of their respective station is over? And, when one detachment retires, who gives the signal for another immediately to advance? WTho, but that unerring Providence, which, from the highest thrones of angels to the very lowest degrees of existence,
* In allusion to the celebrated practice of the Persian kings, ’ who maintained, for their life-guard, a body of troops, called immortal, because it peipetually subsisted: for as soon as any of the men died, another was immediately put into his place.’ llollin’s Ancient History, Vol. II.
orders all things in ’ number, weight, and measure!’
These, O my soul, are the regulations of that most adorable, that most beneficent Being, who bowed the heavens, came down to dwell on earth, and united the frailty of thy mortal nature to all the glories of his Godhead. All the honour of this admirable establishment belongs to thy Ransom, thy Surety, thy Saviour. To Him it belongs, who sustained the vengeance which thou hadst deserved and wast doomed to suffer; who fulfilled the obedience which thou wast obliged, but unable, to perform; and who humbled himself (stupendous, ineffable loving-kindness!) humbled himself to death, even the death of the cross. He formed this vast machine, and adjusted its nice dependencies. The pillars that support it, the embellishments that adorn it, and the l?ws that govern it, are the result of his unsearchable counsels. O! the heights of his majesty, and the depths of his abasement!
Which shall we admire most, his essential greatness, or his free grace? He created the exalted seraph that sings in glory; and every the minutest insect that flutters in air or crawls in dust. He marks out a path for all those globes of light which travel the circuit pt’ the skies, and disdains not to rear the violet from its lowly bed, cr to plait the daisy which dresses our plains. So grand are his operations, yet so condescending his regards! If summer, like a sparkling bride, is brilliant and glorious in her apparel, what is this but a feeble reflection of his uncreated effulgence? If autumn, like a munificent host, opens her stores, and gives us all things richly to enjoy, what is this but a little taste of his inexhaustible liberality i If thunders roar, you hear the sound of his trumpet: if lightnings glare, you see lv:e launching of his glittering spear: if the perpe-GCtual hills be scattered, and the everlasting mountains bowed,’ you behold a display — no, says the prophet, you have rather the hiding of his power*. So immense is his power, so uncontrolable and inconceivable, that all these mighty works
* Ilab. iii. 4. Nothing can be more magnificently conceived than the imagery of this whole chapter; and upon the foot of our interpretation, nothing was ever more delicately and nobly turned than the sentiment of this clause. Other senses of the passage, I acknowledge, may be assigned with equal propriety: but none, I think, can be imagined so majestic and sublime. As the original will fairly admit of it, as it carries no disagreement with the context, and expresses a most important, as well as undoubted truth, I hope I may be permitted to use it, at least by way of accommodation; especially as it suggests one of the finest mottos imaginable, wherewith to inscribe all the visible productions of the Creator’s hand. When, struck with astonishment, we consider their grandeur, beauty, and consummate perfections, let us, in justice to their Author, apply the exalted reflection of this sacred ode: ‘In all these is the hiding rather than an adequate display of his matchless power. Though they challenge our praise, and surpass our comprehension, yet they are by no means the utmost exertions, but rather some slighter essays, of omnipotent skill.’ Milton, relating the overthrow of the fallen angels, introduces a grand circumstance, not much unlike the prececing. Messiah, ucaided and alone, had routed an innumerable host of apostate spirits. This was great and marvellous. But to create a juster idea of the illustrious conqueror, our poet beautifully adds —
Yet half his strength he put not forth. If we forget to make the same remark, when we are but a sketch, in which more is concealed than discovered.
Thus, I think, we should always view the visible system, with an evangelical telescope (if I may be allowed the expression), and with an evangelical microscope, regarding Christ Jesus as the great projector and architect who planned and executed the amazing scheme. Whatever is magnificent or valuable, tremendous or amiable, should ever be ascribed to the Redeemer. This is the Christian’s natural philosophy. With regard to this method of considering the things that are seen, we have an inspired apostle for our preceptor and precedent. Speaking of Christ, he says, ‘Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the Heavens are the work of thy hands.’ Did we carefully attend to this leading principle in all our examinations of nature, it would doubtless be a most powerful means of enkindling our love, and strengthening our faith*. When I look round upon millions of
contemplate God in his works, we must necessarily form very scanty conceptions of that Supreme Being, before whom all nations are as a 4 drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance.’
* The apostles, I observe, delight to use this method of displaying the honours of the Redeemer, and establishing the faith of his people. The beloved disciple, teaching that most precious doctrine, ‘of a Lamb slain to take away the sins of the world,’ in order to evince the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice for this blessed purpose, affirms, that all things were made by him: and without him was not any thing, no, not so much as one single being, made, John i. 3 — St. Paul, preaching the same glad tidings to the Colossians, and expressly maintaining, that we have redemption through his blood, seems to foresee an obnoble substances, and carry with me this transporting reflection, ‘The Maker of them all expired on a cross for me;’ how can I remain any longer indifferent? Must not the coldest heart begin to glow with gratitude? When I survey an immensity of the finest productions imaginable, and remember that the Author of them all is my righteousness and my redemption;’ how can I choose but repose the most cheerful confidence in such a Mediator?
Let me add orue more remark upon the admirable adjustment of every particular relating to
jection of this kind: ‘To expiate transgressions against an infinite majesty is a most prodigious act. It must cost vastly more than any common surety can pay, to redeem a sinful world. What reason have v.e to believe, that Jesus is equal to this mighty undertaking V All possible reason, replies the apostle, from the dignity of his person, for he is the image of the invisible God; and from .the greatness of his works, for by him all things were made. Consider the operations of his hands, and you cannot doubt the atoning efficacy of his death. Col. i. 15, 16. — The author of the Epistle to the Hebrews falls exactly into the same train of arguing. Declaring that Christ Jesus has purged our sins by the sacrifice of himself, he proves his ample ability for this tremendous office from his essential excellence, because he is the brightness of his Father’s glory; and from his admirable works, because he made the worlds, and upholdeth all things by the word of his power, Heb. i. 2, 3: which truth, as it is so im« portant in itself, of such signal comfort to Christians, and so particularly insisted on by the inspired writers, I hope I shall need no apology for an attempt to illustrate and enforce it in a kind of evangelical descant upon Creation annexed to these reflections.
these fine colonies planted in the parterre. With such accuracy and correctness is their structure finished, that any the least conceivable alteration would very much impair their perfection. Should you see, for instance, the nice disposition of the tulip’s attire fly abroad, disorderly and irregular, like the flaunting woodbine; should the jessamine rear her diminutive head on those grand columns which support the hollihock; should the erect and manly aspect of the piony hang down with a pensive air, like the flexile bells of the hyacinth; should that noble plainness which distinguishes the lily be exchanged for the glittering fringes which edge the pink, or the gaudy stains which, bedrop the iris; should those tapering pillars which arise in the middle of its vase, and, tipt with golden pendants, give such a lustre to the surrounding pannels of alabaster — should those sink and disappear, like the chives which cover the heart of the anemone; in many of these cases, would not the transposition be fantastical and auk ward? in all, to the apparent prejudice of every individual?
Again, with regard to the time of their appearing, this circumstance is settled by a remarkable foresight and precaution. What would become of the sailor, if in very- stormy weather he should raise a lofty mast, and crowd it with all his canvass! Such would be the ill effect, if the most stately species of flowers should presume to come abroad in the blustering months. Ah! how would they rue the imprudent boldness! Therefore those only that shoot the shortest stems, and display the smallest spread of leaves, or (if you please) carry the least sail, are launched amidst the blowing seasons. How injudiciously would the perfumer act, if he should unseal his finest essences, and expose them to the northern winds or wintry rains! Our blooming artists of the aromatic profession, at least the most delicate among them, seem perfectly aware of the consequences of such a procedure. Accordingly they postpone the opening of their odoriferous treasures till a serener air, and more unclouded skies *, grant a protection to their amiable traffic; till they are under no more apprehensions of having their spicy cells rifled by rude blasts, or drowned in incessant showers.
What a striking argument is here for resignation, unfeigned resignation, to all the disposals of Providence! Too often are our dissatisfied thoughts apt to find fault with divine dispensations. We tacitly arraign our Maker’s conduct, or
* Casimir, in a very poetical manner, addresses himself to the dormant rose; and most prettily invites her to venture abroad by the mention of these two circumstances:
Siderum sacros imitata vultus,
Quid lates dudum, rosa? Delicatum
Efifere terris caput, O tepentis
Filia cosli.
Jam tibi nubes fugiunt aquosae,
Quas fugant albis Zephyri quadrigis:
Jam tibi mulcet Bore&na jocantis
Aura Favoni.
Child of the summer, charming rose,
No longer in confinement lie;
Arise to light, thy form disclose,
Rival the spangles of the sky.
The rains are gone, the storms are o’er,
Winter retires to make thee way:
Come then, thou sweetly blushing flow’r,
Come, lovely stranger, come away.
The sun is dress’d in beaming smiles,
To give thy beauties to the day:
Young zephyrs wait with gentlest gales
To fan thy bosom as they play.
question his kindness with regard to ourselves. We fancy our lot not so commodious’y situated, or our condition not so happily circumstanced, as if we had been placed in some other station of life. But let us behold this exquisitely nice regulation of the minutest plants, and be ashamed of our repining folly. Could any fibre in their composition be altered, or one line in their features be transposed, without clouding some of their beauties? Could any fold in their vestments be varied, or any link in their orderly succession be broken, without injuring some delicate property? And does not that All-seeing Eye, which preserves so exact a harmony among these pretty toys, maintain as watchful a care over his rational creatures? Does he choose the properest season for the cowslip to arise, and drink the dews, and can he neglect the concerns, or misjudge the conveniencies, of his sons and daughters? He, who has so completely disposed whatever pertains to the vegetable economy, that the least diminution or addition would certainly hurt the finished scheme? does, without all peradventure, preside with equal attention over the interests of his own people.
Be still, then, thou uneasy mortal*; know that
* Permittas ipsis expendere numinibus, quid Conveniat nobis, rebusque sit utile uostris. Is am pro jucundis aptissima quaeque dabunt dii: Carior est illis homo, quam, sib’. — Juv.
Since all the downward tracts of time
God’s watchful ee surveys;
O! who so wise to choose our lot,
And regulate our ways?
Since none can doubt his equal love,
Unmeasurably kind;
To his unerring, gracious will
Be ev’ry wish resign’d.
God is unerringly wise; and be assured that, amidst the greatest multiplicity of beings, he does not overlook thee. Thy Saviour has given me authority to assert, that thou art of far superior value, in the estimate of Omnipotence, than all the herbage of the field. If his sacred will ordains sickness for thy portion, never dare to imagine that uninterrupted health would be more advantageous. If he pleases to withhold or take away children, never presume to conclude, that thy happiness is blasted, because thy hopes of an increasing family are disappointed. He that marshals all the starry host, and so accurately arranges every the meanest specie9 of herbs, he orders all the peculiarities, all the changes of thy state, with a vigilance that nothing can elude, with a goodness that endureth for ever. Bow thy head, therefore, in humble acquiescence. Rest satisfied, that whatever is by the appointment of Heaven *, is right, is best. Among all the productions of the third creating-Good when He gives, supremely good,
Nor less, when he denies;
E’en crosses, from his sovereign hand,
Are blessings in disguise.
* Whatever is, is right — If Mr. Pope understands the maxim according to the limitation suggested arbove, he speaks a most undeniable and glorious truth. Rut if that great poet includes whatever comes to pass, through the wild and extravagant passions of men, surely no thinking person, at least no Christian, can accede to his opinion. — What God orders is wise beyond all possibility of correction; and good, above all that we can ask or think. His decrees are the result of infinite discernment, and his dispensations the issues of unbounded benevolence. But man, fallen ma,D, is day, this of flowers seem to be peculiarly designed for man. Man has the monopoly of this favour: it is conferred on him by a sort of exclusive charter. See the imperial crown, splendid and beautifully grand! See the tuberose, delicate and languishingly fair! See all the pomp and glory of the parterre, where paint and perfume do wonders. Yet the inferior animals are neither smit with their beauties, nor regaled with their odors. The horse never stands still to gaze upon their charms, nor does the ox turn aside to browse upon their sweets. Senses they have to discern these curious objects in the gross, but no taste to distinguish or relish their fine accomplishments. Just so, carnal and unenlightened men may understand the literal meaning of Scripture, may comprehend the evidences of its divine inspiration; yet have no ardent longing for the spiritual blessings it offers, see ’ no form or comeliness’ in the Saviour it describes, so as to render him the supreme desire of their souls.
hurried away by his lusts into a thousand irregularities, which are deplorably evil in themselves, and attended with consequences manifestly pernicious to society. Let the sentiment, therefore, be restrained to the disposals of Heaven, and I most readily subscribe it. But if it be extended to the conduct of men, and the effects of their folly, I think myself obliged to enter my protest against it. For whatever kindles the divine indignation — is cause of final ruin to the author, is strictly forbidden by God’s holy word, is contrary to the whole design of his revealed will, and the very reverse of his essential attributes, — this cannot possibly be right, this is most undoubtedly wrong. Omnipotence, indeed, can over-rule it, and educe good from it. But the very notion of over-ruling supposes it to be absolutely wrong in itself.
The chief end of these beautiful appearances,
philosophers say, is to unfold and cherish the embryo seed, or to swathe the tender body during its infant state. But whatever is the chief end of nature, ’tis certain she never departs from the design of administering delight to mankind ♦. This is inseparably connected with other views. Were it only to secure a reproductive principle, what need of such elegant complications? Why so much art employed, and so many decorations added? Why should vestments be prepared richer than brocades, more delicate than lawns, and of a finer glow than the most admired velvets? If the great mother had no other aim than barely to accommodate her little offspring, warm flannel or homely fustian would have served her turn; served it full as well as the most sumptuous tissues, or all the furniture of the mercer’s shop.
Evident then it is that flowers were endued with such enchanting graces for the pleasure of man. In pursuance of this original intention, they have always paid their court to the human race; they still seem particularly solicitous of recommending themselves to our regard. The finest of each species crowd about our habitations; and are rarely to be seen at a distance from our abodes. They thrive under our cultivating hand and observing eye, but degenerate and pine away if unregarded by their lord. To win his attention,
* ‘We find that the most important parts in the vegetable world are those which are the most beautiful. These are the seeds by which the several races of plants are propagated and continued, and which are always lodged in flowers or blossoms. Nature seems to hide her principal design, and to be industrious in making the earth gay and delightful, while she is carrying on her great work, and intent upon her own preservation.’ Spect. Vol. V. No. 387- and deck his retreats, they hide their deformities under ground, and display nothing but the most graceful forms and engaging colours to his sight. To merit a farther degree of his esteem, the generality of them dispense a delightful perfume. >Vhat is still more obliging, they reserve their richest exhalations to embalm his morning and evening walks *. Because he usually chooses those cool hours to recreate himself among their blooming ranks, therefore at those hours they are most lavish of their fragrance, and breathe out theii choicest spirits.
O man, greatly beloved by thy Creator! the darling of Providence! thou art distinguished by his goodness; distinguish thyself also by thy gratitude. Be it thy one undivided aim to glorify Ilim who has been at so much expense to gratify thee! — While all these inferior creatures, in silent eloquence, declare the glory of God, do thou lend them thy tongue. Be thou the high priest of the mute creation. Let their praises become vocal in thy songs. Adore the Supreme Benefactor for the blessings He showers down upon every order of beings. Adore Him for numberless mercies which are appropriated to thyself. But, above all, adore Ilim for that noble gift of a rational and immortal soul: this constitutes us masters of the globe, and gives us the real enjoyment of its riches: this discovers ten thousand beauties, which other-
- The flow’rs,
That open now their choicest bosom’d smells, Reserv’d from night, and kept for thee in store.
Milt.
The twining jasmine and the blushing rose
“With lavish grace their morning scents disclose;
The smelling tub’rose and jonquil declare
The stronger impulse of an ev’ning air.
Prior’s Sol.
wise had been lost, and renders them both a source of delight and a nursery of devotion. By virtue of this exalted principle, we are qualified to admire our Maker’s works, and capable of bearing his illustrious image; bearing his illustrious image, not only when these ornaments of the ground have resigned their honours, but when the great origin of day is extinguished in the skies, and all the flaming orbs on high are put out in obscure darkness. Then to survive, to survive the ruins of one world, and to enjoy God — to resemble God — to be ’ filled with all the fullness of God,’ in another — what a happiness, what an inestimable happiness, is this! Yet this is thy privilege, (barter it not, for trifles of an hour!) this thy glorious prerogative, O man!
O! the goodness, the exuberant goodness, of our God! I cannot forbear Celebrating it once more, before I pass to another consideration. — How much should we think ourselves obliged to a generous friend, who should build a stately edifice* purely for our abode! But how greatly
* I cannot persuade myself, that the comparison is stretched beyond proper bounds when carried to this pitch. It is my steadfast opinion, that the world, at least this lower world, with its various appurtenances, was intended purely for man; that it is appropriated to him; and that he (in subordination to God’s glory) is the end of its creation. Other animals, ’tis true, partake of the Creator’s benefits: but then they partake under the notion of man’s domestics, or on the foot of retainers to him; as creatures, which bear some relation to his service, and some way or other contribute to his good. So that still he is the centre of the whole; or, as our incomparable Milton, equally master of poetry and divinity, expresses himself, ‘All things live for man.’ Par, Lost. B. XI. l6l.
would the obligation be increased, if the hand that built should also furnish it! and not only
Mr. Pope, in his Ethic Epistks, is pleased to explode this tenet as the height of pride and a gross absurdity. For my part I see no reason for such a charge. Willi all submission to so superior a genius, it seems very remote from pride to be duly sensible of favours vouchsafed; to contemplate them in all the extent of their munificence, and acknowledge them accordingly. I should rather imagine, that to contract their size, when they are immensely large; to stint their number, when they are altogether innumerable; that such a procedure savours more of insensibility than our hypothesis of presumption, and has more in it of ingratitude than that of arrogance.
Arid how can it be deemed in absurdity, to maintain that God gave us a world for our possession, when it is our duty to believe that he gave us his only Son for our propitiation? Sure, it can be neither difficult nor extravagant to suppose, that he designed the habitable globe, with its whole furniture, for our present use; since he withheld not his holy child Jesus, but freely delivered him up for our final salvation.
Upon the whole, I cannot but conclude, that the attempt of our famous poet is neither kind with regard to his fellow-creatures, nor grateful with regard to his Creator; neither is his scheme in fact true. — The attempt not kind with regard to man, because i,t robs him of one of the most delightful and ravishing contemplations imaginable. To consider the great Author of existence as having me in his eye, when he formed universal nature; as contriving all, things with an imme* diate view to the exigencies of my particular state; and making them all in such a manner, as might be most conducive to my particular advan>.
furnish it with all that is commodious and comfortable, but ornament it also with whatever is splendid and delightful ! — this has our most indulgent Creator done, ill a manner infinitely surpa.viing all we could wish or imagine.
The earth is assigned us for a dwelling. The skies are stretched over us like a magnificent catage; this must occasion the strongest satisfactions, whenever I cast a glance on the objects that surround me. — Not grateful with regard to God, because it has the most direct tendency to diminish our sense of his kindness, and by that means to throw a damp upon our gratitude. It teaches us to look upon ourselves, as almost lost among a crowd of other beings, or regarded only with an occasional and incidental beneficence, which must certainly weaken the disposition and indeed slacken the ties to the most adoring thankfulness. — To which, I apprehend, we may justly add, neither is the scheme in fact true. For, not to mention what might be urged from the sure word of revelation, this one argument appears sufficiently conclusive. The world began with man; the world must cease with man; consequently the grand use, the principal end of the world, is, to subserve the interest of man. It is on all sides agreed, that the edifice was erected when man was to be furnished with an habitation; and that it will be demolished, when man has no farther need of its accommodations. When he enters into the house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, ’ the earth, and all the works that are therein, shall be burnt up.’ From which it seems a very obvious and fair deduction, that man is the final cause of this inferior creation.
So that I think my readers and myself privileged (not to say, on the principles of gratitude, obliged) to use those lovely lines of our author,
/ nopy dyed in the purest azure; and beautified, now with pictures of floating silver, now with colourings of reflected crimson. The grass is spread under us as a spacious carpet, wove with silken threads of green, and damasked with flowers of every hue. The sun, like a golden lamp, is hung out in the ethereal vault; and pours his effulgence all the day to lighten our paths. When night approaches, the moon takes up the friendly office; and the stars are kindled in twinkling myriads to cheer the darkness with their milder lustre, not disturb our repose by too intense a glare. The clouds, besides the rich paintings they hang around the heavens, act the part of a shifting screen; and defend us, by their seasonable interposition, from the scorching beams of summer. May we not also regard them as the great watering-pots of the globe? which, wafted on the wings of the wind, dispense their moisture * evenly through the universal garden; and
with a propiiety and truth, equal to their elegance
and beauty: For me kind Nature wakes her genial pow’r, Suckles each herb, and spreads out ev’ry flow’r! Annual, for me, the grape, the rose renew The juice nectareous, and the balmy dew; For me, the mine a thousand treasures brings; For me, health gushes from a thousand spiings. £th. Ep. I. ver. 129.
* This circumstance, amidst abundance of other delicate and’edifying remarks upon the wonders of nature, is finely touched in the Philosophical Transactions recorded in the book of Job, chap.
xxxviii. ver. 15. — H^fy FjtDttf &B »D Who hath divided a water-course for the overflowing of waters? — The Hebrew is so pregnant and rich with sense, that no translation can do it justice. The fructify, with their showers, whatever our hand plants The fields are our exhaustless granary. The ocean is our vast reservoir. The animals spend their strength to dispatch our business, resign their clothing to replenish our wardrobe, and surrender their very lives to provide for our tables. In short, every element is a storehouse of conveniencies, every season brings us the choicest productions, all nature is our caterer: and, which is a most endearing recommendation of these favours, they are all as lovely as they are useful. You observe nothing mean or inelegant. All is clad in beauty’s fairest robe *, and regulated by proportion’s nicest rule. The whole scene,
following paraphrase, perhaps, may represent the principal ideas comprehended in the expressive original: — Who has branched out, and with admirable judgment disposed a variety of aqueducts, for that immense collection of waters which float in the sky? “Who distributes those pendulous floods through all the borders of the earth? Distributes them, not in dreadful cataracts, or promiscuous gluts of rain, but in kindly drops and refreshing showers, with as much re» gularity and economy as if they were conveyed by pipes from a conduit? To whom shall we ascribe that niceness of contrivance, which now emits, now restrains them; sometimes drives their humid train to one place, sometimes to another; dispenses them to this soil in larger, to that in smaller communications: and, in a word, so manages the mighty fluid, that every spot is supplied in exact proportion to its wants, none destroyed by an undistinguishing deluge?
* Perhaps it was from such an observation, that the Greeks, those critical and refined judges of things, expressed the mundane system by a word which signifies beauty — xocr/j.Qg» exhibits a fund of pleasures to the imagination, at the same time that it more than supplies all our wants *.
Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art, that rebellest against thy Maker. He surrrounds thee with unnumbered benefits, and follows thee with an effusion of the richest, noblest gifts. He courts thy affections, he solicits thy gratitude, by liberalities which are never intermitted, by a bounty which knows no limits. — Most blessed Lord, let this thy goodness, thy un« wearied goodness, lead us to repentance. Win us to thyself, thou Fountain of Felicity, by these sweet inducements. Draw us to our duty, thou God of our Salvation, by these * cords of love.’
What a living picture is here of the beneficial effects of industry! By industry and cultivation, this neat spot is an image of Edei.. Here is all that can entertain the eye, or regale the smell t. Whereas, without cultivation, this sweet garden had been a desolate wilderness. Vile thistles had made, it loathsome, and tangling briers inaccessible. Without cultivation it might have been a nest of serpents, and the horrid haunt of venomous creatures. But the spade and pruning-knife in the hand of industry have improved it into a sort of terrestrial paradise.
How naturally does this lead our contemplation to the advantages which Mow from a virtuous edu-
* ‘Those several living creatures, which are made for our service or sustenance, at the same time either fill the woods with their music, furnish us with game, or raise pleasing ideas in us by the delightfulness of their appearance. Fountains, lakes, and rivers, are as refreshing to the imagination, as to the soil through which they pass.’ Spect. Vol. V. No. 387.
1 Omnia copia narium. Hor.
II
1JC KEFLECTIONS ON A
ration, and the miseries which ensue from the weglect * of it! The mind, without early instruction, will in all probability become like the ’ vineyard of the sluggard:’ if left to the propensities of its own depraved will, what can we expect but ♦he most luxuriant growth of unruly appetites, which in time will break forth into all manner of scandalous irregularities? What! — but that anger, Mke a prickly thorn, arm the temper with an uniractable moroseness: peevishness, like a stinging rettle, render the conversation irksome and forbidding: avarice, like some choking weed, teach the fingers to gripe, and the hands to oppress: revenge, like some poisonous plant, replete with baneful juices, rankle in the breast, and meditate unischief to its neighbour: while unbridled lusts, like swarms of noisome insects, taint each rising thought; and render ’ every imagination of the heart only evil continually?’ Such are the usual products of savage nature; such the furniture of the uncultivated soul!
“Whereas let the mind be put under the ’ nurture and- admonition of the Lord:’ let holy discipline clear the soil: let sacred instructions sow it with the best seed: let skill and vigilance dress the rising shoots; direct the young ideas how to spread; the wayward passions how to move: then what a different state of the inner man will quickly take place! Charity will breathe her sweets, and hope expand her blossoms; the personal virtues display their graces, and the social ones their fruits t; the sentiments become ge-
* Neglectis urenda filix innascitur agris. Hor.
t This transformation of the heart and renewal of the life are represented in Scripture by similitudes very nearly allied to the images used above. God, by his sanctifying Spirit, will make the soul as a watered garden. Under the optration of this nerous, the carriage endearing, the life honourable and useful*.
O! that governors of families and masters of schools would watch with a conscientious solicitude over the morals of their tender charge! What pity it is, that the advancing generation should lose these invaluable endowments through any supineness in their instructors! See! wi’h what assiduity the curious florist attends his little nursery! He visits them early and late; funishes them with the properest mould; supplies them with seasonable moisture; guards them from the ravages of insects; screens them from the injuries of the weather; marks their springing buds; observes them attentively through their whole progress; and never intermits his anxiety till he beholds them blown into full perfection. And shall a range of painted leaves, which flourish to-day, and to morrow fall to the ground — shall these be tended with more 2ealous applidivine principle, the desert shall lejoice, and blossom as the rose. Wherever it exerts the refining and ennobling energy, instead of the thorn shall come up the fig-tree, and instead of the brier, the myrtle-tree. Jertm. xxxi. 12. lsai. xxxv. 1. lv. 13.
* A teneris assuesce re tanti est! Virg.
—ou ya£ fjLwpov Siatyepet, to ovrwg rj
GVTwg 6i»6u£ £K vewv eOieaGa/, aAAa wa/UTrcXv, fxaKKoy Zt to’ -GJ0I.V Aristot. The principles we imbibe, and the habits we contract, in our early years, are not matters of small moment, but of the utmost consequence imaginable. They not only give a transient or superficial tincture to our first appearance in life, but most commonly stamp the form of our whole future conduct, and even of our eternal state.
cation, than the exalted faculties of an immortal
soul!
Yet trust not in cultivation alone. It is the blessing of the Almighty Husbandman, which imparts success to such labours of love. If God ’ seal up the bottles of heaven,’ and command the clouds to withhold their fatness, the best-manured plot becomes a barren desert. And if He restrain the dew of his heavenly benediction, all human endeavours miscarry; the rational plantation languishes; our most pregnant hopes, from youths of the most promising genius, prove abortive. Their root will be as rottenness, and their blossom will go up as dust*. Therefore, let parents plant; let tutors water; but let both look up to the Father of spirits for the desired increase.
On every side, I espy several budding flowers. As yet, they are like bales of cloth from the packer’s warehouse: each is wrapt within a strong enclosure, and its contents are tied together by the firmest bandages; so that all their beauties lie concealed, and all their sweets are locked up. Just such is the niggardly wretch, whose aims are all turned inward, and meanly terminated upon himself; who makes his own private interests or personal pleasures the sole centre of his designs, and the scanty circumference of his actions.
Ere long the searching beams will open these silken folds, and draw them into a graceful expansion. Then, what a lovely blush will glow in their cheeks, and what a balmy odor exhale from their bosoms! So, when divine grace shines upon the mind, even the churl becomes bountiful; the heart of stone is taken away, and a heart of flesh, a heart susceptible of the softest, most compassionate emotions, is introduced in its stead. O! how sweetly do the social affections dilate
Isai v. 24.
themselves under so benign an influence! just like these disclosing gems, under the powerful eye of day. The tender regards are no longer confined to a single object; but extend themselves into a generous concern for mankind, and shed liberal refreshments on all within their reach *.
Arise then, thou Sun of righteousness j arise, with healing under thy wings; and transfuse thy gentle but penetrating ray through all our intellectual powers. Enlarge every narrow disposition, and fill us with a diffusive benevolence. Make room in our breasts for the whole human race; and teach us to love all our fellow-creatures for their amiable Creator’s sake. May we be pleased with their excellencies, and rejoice in their happiness; but feel their miseries as our own, and with a brother’s sympathy hasten to relieve them!
Disposed at proper distances, I observe a range of strong and stately stalks. ‘I hey otand like towers along the walls of a fortified city, or rise like lofty spires amidst the group of houses. They
* The prophet, describing the charitable temper, very beautifully says, ‘If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry.’ — This, I think, may not improperly be illustrated by the circumstances observed above. The opening of those buds into a large and extensive spread, is a pretty portrait of the amplitude of a generous heart, which cannot shut up its compassion, or remain unconcerned at any human calamity. The fieeness and copiousness with which the expanded flowers are continually pouring out their choicest essences, may represent the various acts of an unwearied liberality; together with those endearing words and that cordial affection which embalm, as it were, a gift, double its value, and constitute what the sacred penman styles, drawing out the soul. P]tI^D^ p’SH deprompsens animam. tuam. lsai. lviii. 10.
part, at tho top, into several peusilc spiky pods, from each of which we shall soon see a line figure displaying itself rounded into a form, which constitutes a perfect circle, spread wide open into the most frank and communicative air; and tinged with the colour which is so peculiarly captivating to the miser’s eye.
But the property I chiefly admire, is its passionate fondness for the sun. When the evening shades take place, the poor flower droops, and folds up its leaves. It mourns all the long night, and pines amidst the gloom, like some forlorn lover banished from the object of his affections. No sooner does Providence open ’ the eyelids of the morning,’ but it meets and welcomes the returning light*, courts and caresses it all the day, nor ever loses sight of the refulgent charmer so long as he continues above the horizon! In the morning, you may perceive it presenting a golden bosom to the east; at noon, it points upward to the middle sky; in the evening follows the same attractive influence to the west.
Surely Nature is a book, and every page rich with sacred hints. To an attentive mind the garden turns preacher, and its blooming tenants are so many lively sermons. What an engaging pattern, and what an excellent lesson have we here! — So let the redeemed of the Lord look unto Jesus t, and be conformed to their Beloved. Let us all be heliotropes (if I may use the expression) to the Sun of righteousness; let our passions rise and fall, take this course or that, as his word determines, as his holy example guides; let us be so accommodated both to his commanding and providential will, as the wax is turned to
* Ilia suurn, quamvis radice tenetur,
Vertitur ad soiem. — — — Ovid.
t Heb. xii. 2.
FLOWER-GARDEN. l>i
the imprinted seal; or, as the aspect of this enamoured flower, to the splendid star which creates our day.
In every enjoyment, O thou watchful Christian, look unto Jesus; receive it as proceeding from his love, and purchased by his agonies*. In every tribulation look unto Jesus; mark his gracious hand, managing the scourge, or mingling the bitter cup; attempering it to a proper degree of severity; adjusting the time of its continuance; and ready to make these seeming disasters productive of real good. In every infirmity and failing, look unto Jesus, thy merciful high-priest; pleading his atoning blood, and making intercession for transgres. sors. In every prayer look unto Jesus, thy prevailing advocate; recommending thy devotions, and ’ bearing the iniquity of thy holy things t»” In every temptation look unto Jesus, the author of thy strength, and captain of thy salvation; who alone is able to lift up the hands which hang down, to invigorate the enfeebled knees, and make thee more than conqueror over all thy enemies. But especially, when the hour of thy departure approaches; when ‘thy flesh and thy heart fail;* when all the springs of life are irreparably breaking; then look unto Jesus with a believing eye J. Like expiring Stephen, behold him standing at the right hand of God, on purpose to succour his people in this their last extremity. Yes, my Christian friend; when thy journey through life is finished, and thou art arrived on the very verge of
* He sunk beneath our heavy woes,
To raise us to his throne:
There’s not a gift his hand bestows,
But cost his heart a groan. Watts,
t Exod. xxviii. 38.
t Look unto me, and be ye ?aved, all the ends of the earth. Zsai, xlv..’;.
mortality; when thou art just launching out into the invisible world, and all before thee is vast eternity; then, O then, be sure to look steadfastly unto Jesus! ‘See by faith the Lord’s Christ.’ View him as the only way to the everlasting mansions *, as the only door to the abodes of bliss t.
Yonder tree, which faces the south, has something too remarkable, to pass without observation. Like the fruitful though feeble vine, she brings forth a large family of branches: but, unable to support them herself, commits them to the tuition of a sunny wall. As yet the tender twigs have scarce gemmed their future blossoms. However, I may anticipate the well-known productions, and picture to myself the passion-flower; which will in due time, with a long and copious succession, adorn the boughs.
I have read, in a Latin author, of flowers inscribed with the name of kings $; but here is one, imblazoned with the marks of the bleeding Prince of life. I read in the inspired writings of apostolic men, who bore about in their bodies the dying of the Lord Jesus §; but here is a blooming religioso, that carries apparent memorials of the same tremendous and fatal catastrophe. Who would have expected to find such a tragedy of woe, exhibited in a collection of the most delicate delights? Or to see Calvary’s horrid scene portrayed on the softest ornaments of the garden? Is nature then actuated by the noble ambition of paying commemorative honours to her agonizing Sovereign? Is she kindly officious to remind forgetful mortals of that miracle of mercy, which it is their duty to
* John, xiv. 6. t John, x. Q.
j Die, quibus in terris inscripti nomina regain
.Nascautur flores? — Virg.
* Cor, iv. 10.
contemplate, and their happiness to believe? Or is a sportive imagination my interpreter, and all the supposed resemblance no more than the precarious gloss of fancy? Be it so; yet even fancy has her merit, when she sets forth in such pleasing imagery the crucified Jesus? Nor shall I refuse a willing regard to imagination herself, when she employs her creative powers to revive the sense of such unparalleled love, and prompt my gratitude to so divine a Friend.
That spiral tendril, arising from the bottom of the stalk, is it a representation of the scourge which lashed the Redeemer’s unspotted flesh, and inflicted those stripes by which our souls are healed? Or is it twisted for the cord which bound his hands in painful and ignominious confinement — those beneficent hands, which were incessantly stretched out to unloose the heavy burdens, and to impart blessings of every choice kind? Behold the nails which were dreuched in his sacred veins, and rivetted his feet to the accursed tree — those beautiful leet *, which always went about doing good, and travelled far and near to spread the glad tidings of everlasting salvation. See the hammer, ponderous and massy, which drove the rugged irons through the shivering nerves, and forced a passage for those dreadful wedges between the dislocated bones. View the thorns which incircled our royal Master’s brow, and shot their keen afflictive points into his blessed head. O the smart! the rackiug smart! when, instead of the triumphal laurel, or the odoriferous garland, that pungent and ragged wreath was planted on the meek Messiah’s forehead! when
* How beautiful are the fee,t of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace, that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation! lsai. lii. 7.
II 2 violent and barbarous blows of the strong eastern cane* struck the prickly crown, and fixed every thorn deep in his throbbing temples t! There stand the disciples, ranged in the green impalement, and forming a circle round the instruments of their great Commander’s death. They appear like so many faithful adherents, who breathe a gallant resolution, either of defending their Lord to the last extremity, or of dropping honourably by his side. But did they give such proofs of zeal and fidelity in their conduct, as their steady posture and determined aspect seem to promise i Alas! what is all human firmness, when destitute
* * They took the reed,’ says the sacred historian, ’ and smote him on the head; and so, as it were, nailed down the thorns into his forehead and temples, and occasioned thereby exquisite pain, as well as a great effusion of blood.’ Family Expositor, Vol. II. Sect. 188. ‘It is most probable,’ adds the same judicious critic, ’ this was a walkingstaff which they put into his hand as a sceptre, for a blow with a slight reed would scarce have been felt, or have deserved a mention in a detail of such dreadful sufferings.’
t The smart attending this unparalleled piece of contempt and baibarity, must be inexpressibly severe; not only on account of the many painful punctures mde in the flesh, but principally because the periosteum, an exquisitely sensible tegument of the bones, lying in those parts, very near the external skin, must receive a multitude of terrible wounds, the anguish of which could not fail of being inflamed to an excess of rage, by the contin uitnce of so many thorny lancets in that extremely tender membrane; which, in such a case,
trembling alive all o’er,
Must smart and agonize at ev’ry pore.
of succours from above, but an expiring vapour? What is every saint, if unsupported by powerful grace, but an abandoned traitor? Observe the glory, delineated in double rays, grand with imperial purple, and rich with ethereal blue. But ah! how incapable are threads, though spun by summer’s finest hand, though dyed in snows, or dipped in heaven, to display the immaculate excellency of his human, or the ineffable majesty of his divine nature! Compared with these sublime perfections, the most vivid assemblage of colours fades into an unmeaning flatness; the most charming effects of light and shade are not only mere daubings, but an absolute blank.
Among all the beauties which shine in sunny robes, and sip the silver dews, this, I think, has the noblest import, if not the finest presence. Were they all to pass in review, and expect the award of superiority from my decision, I should not hesitate a moment. Be the prize assigned to this amiable candidate; which has so eminently distinguished and so highly dignified herself, by bearing such a remarkable resemblance to ’ the righteous Branch; the Plant of renown*.’ While others appoint it a place in the parterre; I would transplant the passion-flower, or rather transfer its sacred significancy to my heart. There let it bloom, both in summer and in winter; bloom, in the most impressive characters, and with an undecaying lustre: that I may also wear — wear on my very soul, the traces of Immauuel; pierced for my sins, and bruised for my transgressions: that I also may be crucified with Christt, at least in penitential remorse, and affectionate sympathy:
* So the blessed Jesus is described, Jerem, xxiii. 5f Ezek. xxxiv. QQ, t Gal, ii. 20,- that I may know the fellowship of his suffeiings*; and feel all my evil affections wounded by his agonies, mortified by his death.
There is another subject of the verdant kingdom, which, on account of its very uncommon qualities, demands my particular notice: one, so extremely diffident in her disposition, and delicate in her constitution, that she dares not venture herself abroad in the open air, but is nursed up in the warmth of a hot-bed, and lives cloistered in the cells of a green-house. But, the most curious peculiarity is, that of all her kindred species, she alone partakes of perceptive life; at least advances nearest to this more exalted state of being; and may be looked upon as the link which connects the animal and the vegetable world. A stranger, observing her motions, would almost be induced t6 suspect, that she is endued with some inferior degrees of consciousness and caution. For if you offer to handle this sensitive plant, she immediately takes an alarm; hastily contracts her fibres; and, like a person under apprehensions of violence, withdraws from our finger in a kind of precipitate disorder. Perhaps the beauty of her aspect might be sullied, or the nicentss of her texture discomposed, by the human touch. Therefore, like a coy virgin, she recedes from all unbecoming familiarities, and will admit no such improper, if not pernicious freedoms.
Whatever be the cause of this unusual effect, it suggests an instructive admonition to the Christian. Such should be our apprehensive timorous care with regard to sin; and all, even the most distant, approaches of vice. So should we avoid the very appearance of evil, and stand aloof from every occasion of falling. If sinners entice; if for-
* PhU.iu.io.
bidden pleasures tempt; or if opportunity beckon, with the gain of injustice in her hand: O! turn from the gilded snare; touch not the beauteous bane; but fly, fly with haste, fly without any delay, from the bewitching ruin. Does anger draw near with her lighted torch, to kindle the flame of resentment in our breasts? Does flattery ply our ears with her enchanting and intoxicating whispers? Would discontent lay her leaden hand upon our temper, and mould into our minds her sour leaven, in order to make us a burden to ourselves and unamiable to others? Instantly let us divert our attention from the dangerous objects; and not so much endeavour to antidote, as to shun, the moral contagion Let us revolve in our meditations that wonderful meekness of our distressed Master, which, amidst the most abusive and provoking insults, maintained an uniform tenor of unshaken serenity. Let us contemplate that prodigious humiliation, which brought him, from an infinite height above all worlds, to make his bed in the dust of death. Let us soothe our jarring, our uneasy passions, with the remembrance of that cheerfulness and resignation, which rendered him, in the deepest poverty, unfeignedly thankful, and, under the heaviest tribulations, most submissively patient.
Harbour not, on any consideration, the betrayer of your virtue. Be deaf, inflexibly deaf, to every beguiling solicitation. If it obtrude into the unguarded heart; give it entertainment, no, not for a moment. To parley with the enemy, is to open a door for destruction. Our safety consists in flight; and in this case, suspicion is the truest prudence, fear the greatest bravery. Play not on the brink of the precipice. Flutter not round the edges of the flame. Dally not with the stings of death: but reject, with a becoming mixture of solicitude and abhorrence, the very first insinuations of iniquity, as cautiously as the smarting sore shrinks even from the softest hand; as constantly as this jealous plant recoils at the approaching touch*.
Not long ago these curious productions of the spring were coarse and mis-shapen roots. Had we opened the earth, and beheld them in their seed, how uncouth and contemptible had their appearance been! But now they are the boast
* The prophet Isaiah, in an elegant and lively description of the upright man, says, lie shaketh his hands from holding of bribes; and, I may add, from practising any kind of iniquity. The image, exceedingly beautiful and equally expressive, both illustrates and enforces the doctrine of this whole section. Shaketh his hands: just as a person would do, who happens to have burning coals fall into his lap, or some venomous creature fastening upon his flesh. In such a case none would stand a moment to consider or to debate with himself the expediency of the thing. He would instantly fling off the pernicious encumbrance, instantly endeavour to disengage himself from the clinging mischief. — Isai. xxxiii. 15.
I have represented the danger of not extinguishing immediately the very first sparks of temptation in a variety of views; because a proper behaviour, in this conjuncture, is of such vast importance to the purity, the safety, and the comforts of our minds; because I had the royal moralist in my eye, who, deterring hhp pupils from the path of the wicked, cries, with an air of deep concern, and in the language of vehement importunity; cries, Avoid it; pass not by it; turn from it, and pass away. How strongly is the counsel urged by being so frequently repeated in such a remarkable diversity of concise and abrupt, consequently of forcible and pressing admonitions! Prov, iv. 15.
of nature; the delight of the sons of men; finished patterns for enamelling and embroidery; outshining even the happiest strokes of the pencil. They are taught to bloom, but with a very inferior lustre*, in the richest tapestries and most magnificent silks. Art never attempts to equal their incomparable elegancies, but places all her merit in copying after these delicate originals. Even those, who glitter in silver, or whose clothing is of wrought gold, are desirous to borrow additional ornaments from a sprig of jessamine or a little assemblage of pinks.
What a fine idea may we form from hence of the resurrection of the just, and the state of their reanimated bodies! As the roots even of our choicest flowers, when deposited in the ground, are rude and ungraceful, but when they spring up into blooming life are most elegant and splendid; so the flesh of a saint, when committed to the dust, alas! what is it? A heap of corruption; a mass of putrefying clay. But, when it obeys the great archangel’s call, and starts into a new existence; what an astonishing change ensues! What a most ennobling improvement takes place! That which was sown in weakness, is raised in all the vivacity of power. That which was sown in deformity is raised in the bloom of celestial beauty. Exalted, refined, and glorified, it will shine ’ as the brightness of the firmament,’ when it darts the inimitable blue through the fleeces — the snowy fleeces of some cleaving cloud. Fear not then, thou faithful Christian; fear not,
* The cowslip smiles in brighter yellow drest, Than that which veils the nubile virgin’s breast: A fairer red stands blushing in the rose, ‘il.au thai which on the bridegroom’s vestments flows. Prior’s Sol.
at the appointed time to descend into the tomb. Thy soul thou mayst trust with thy omnipotent Redeemer, who is Lord of the unseen world; ’ who has the keys of hell, and of death.’ Most safely mayst thou trust thy better part in those beneficent hands which were pierced with nails, and fastened to the ignominious tree, for thy salvation. With regard to thy earthly tabernacle, be not dismayed. It is taken down only to be rebuilt upon a diviner plan, and in a more heavenly form. If it retires into the shadow of death, and lies immured in the gloom of the grave, it is only to return from a short confinement to endless liberty. If it falls into dissolution, it is in order to rise more illustrious from its ruins, an J wear an infinitely brighter face of perfection, and of glory.
Having now made my panegyric, let me next take up a lamentation for these loveliest productions of the vegetable world. For I foresee their approaching doom. Yet a little while, and all these pleasing scenes vanish. Yet a little while, and all the sweets of the breathing, all the beauties of the blooming spring, are no more. Lvery one of these amiable forms must be shriveled to deformity and trodden to the earth. Significant resemblance this, of all created beauty. All rlesh is grass; like the green herbage, liable and prone to fade. Nay, all the goodliness thereof, its finest accomplishments, and what the world universally admires, is as the flower of the field*, which loses its gloss, decays and perishes, more speedily than the grass itself. Behold then, ye brightest among the daughters of Eve; behold yourselves in this glass. See the charms of your person eclipsed by the lustre of these little flowers; and
* Isai. xl. 6.
the frailty of your state represented by their transient glories*. A fever may scorch those po-
* Kou ropoSov y.ocXov erri, xaioypovo; olvto /j-apuivei9 Kat to iov kolKov sartv ey sia.pit k<xi Tayy ynpot’
AgUXOV TO XpiVW Z<7Tly jUOLpOCWtTOlt OttlXU ZJ17TT>)*
A 5e yiwv XsvKoty km tolkstou ocvixot zotyOr;
Kxi x,oilhog)toLXQ)i tar: to vraifaxov, oc’aX Aor/ov £»,
The reader will excuse me, if I imitate, rather than translate, these lines from Theocritus; if I vary one image, add another, and give a new turn to the whole.
When snows descend, and robe the fields
In winter’s bright array;
Touch’d by the sun, the lustre fades,
And weeps itself away.
When spring appears; when violets blow,
And shed a rich perfume;
How soon the fragrance breathes its last!
How short-liv’d is the bloom!
Fresh in the morn, the summer rose
Hangs withering ere ’tis noon j
We scarce enjoy the balmy gift,
But mourn the pleasure gone.
With gliding fire, an evening star
Streaks the autumnal skies;
Shook from the sphere, it darts away,
And, in an instant, dies.
Such are the charms that flush the cheek,
And sparkle in the eye:
So from the lovely finish’d form
The transient graces fly»
To this the seasons, as they roll,
Their attestation bring:
They warn the fair; their ev’ry round
Confirms the truth I sing.
lished veins; a consumption may emaciate the dimpling cheeks; and a load of unexpected sorrows depress those lively spirits. Or should these disasters, in pity, spare the tender frame; jet age, inexorable age and wrinkles, will assuredly come at last; will wither all the fine features, and blast every sprightly grace.
Then, ye fair, when those sparkling eyes are darkened, and sink in their orbs; when they are rolling in agonies, or swimming in death, how will you sustain the affliction? how will you repair the loss? Apply your thoughts to religion. Attend to the one thing needful. Believe in, and imitate, the blessed Jesus. Then shall your souls mount up to the realms of happiness; when the well-proportioned clay is mingling with its mean original. The light of God’s countenance will irradiate with matchless and consummate perfection, all their exalted faculties. Cleansed entirely from every dreg of corruption, like some unsullied mirror, they will reflect the complete image of their Creator’s holiness. O! that you would thus dress your minds, and prepare for the immortal state! Then, from shining among your fellow-creatures on earth, you shall be translated to shine around the throne of God. Then, from being the sweeteners of our life, and the delight of our eyes, here below; you shall pass, by an easy transition, into angels of light, and become an everlasting excellency, the joy of all generations.’
Yes; ye flowery nations; ye must all decay. Yonder lily, that looks like the queen of the gay creation; see, how gracefully it erects its majestic head! What an air of dignity and grandeur ennobles its aspect! For elevated mien, as well as for incomparable lustre, justly may it be preferred to the magnificent monarch of the East*. But, all
* Matt. vi. 29.
FLOWER-GARDEN. irjJstalely and charming as it is, it will hardly survive a few more days, ‘lhat unspotted whiteness must quickly be tarnished; and the snowy form, denied in the dust.
As the lily pleases with the noble simplicity of its appearance; the tulip is admired for the gaiety and multiplicity of its colours. Never was cup, either painted or enamelled, with such a profusion of dyes. Its tinges are so glov ing; its contrasts so strong; and the arrangement of them both, so elegant and artful! ‘I was lately the pride of the border, and the reigning beauty of the delightful season. As exquisitely fine as the rainbow, and almost as extremely transient, it spread for a little moment its glittering plumage, but has now laid all its variegated and superior honouis down. Those radiant stripes are blended, alas! rudely blended with common mould.
To a graceful shape, and blooming complexion, the rose adds the most agreeable peifume. Our nostrils mnke it repeated visits, and are never weary of drinking in its sweets. A fragrance, so peculiarly rich and reviving, transpires from its opening tufts; that every one covets its acquaintance. How have 1 seen even the accomplished Clarissa, for whom so many votaries languish, fondly caressing this little flower! That lovely bosom, which is the seat of innocence and virtue; whose least excellency it is to rival the delicacy of the purest snows; among a thousand charms of its own, thinks it possible to adopt another from the damask rosebud. Yet even this universal favourite must fail Its native balm cannot preserve it from putrefaction. Soon, soon, must it resign all those endearing qualities, and hang neglected on its stem, or djrop despised to tie ground.
One could wish, methinks, these most amiable of the inanimate race a longer existence: but in vain: they fade almost as soon as they flourish; within less than a month their glories are extinct. Let the sun take a few more journeys through the sky, then visit this enchanting walk, and you will find nothing but a wretched wilderness of ragged or naked stalks — but (my soul exults in the thought) the garment of celestial glory, which shall ere long array the re-animated body, will never wax old. The illustrious robes of a Saviour’s consummate righteousness, which even now adorn the justified spirits, are incorruptible and immortal. No moth can corrode their texture; no number of ages sully their brightness. The light of day may be quenched, and all the stars sink in obscurity; but the honours of ‘just men made perfect,’ are subject to no diminution. Inextinguishable and unfading is the lustre of their crown.
Yes; ye flowery nations, ye must all decay, “Winter, like some enraged and irresistible conqueror, that carries fire and sword wherever he advances; that demolishes towns, depopulates countries, spreads slaughter and desolation on every side — so, just so, will winter, with his savage and unrelenting blasts, invade this beautiful prospect. The storms are gathering, and the tempests mustering their rage, to fall upon the vegetable kingdoms. They will ravage through the dominions of nature, and plunder her riches, and lay waste her charms. Then, ye trees, must ye stand stripped of your verdant apparel; and, ye fields, be spoiled of your waving treasures. Then the earth, disrobed of all her gay attire, must sit in sables, like a disconsolate widow. The sun too, who now rides in triumph round the world, and scatters gaiety from his radiant eye, will then look faintly from the windows of the south, and, casting a short glance on our dejected world, will leave us to the uncomfortable gloom of tedious nights. Then these pretty choristers of the air will chant no more to the gentle gales; the lark, the linnet, and all the feathered songsters, abandon their notes arjd indulge their woes. The harmony of the woods is at an end; and silence, (unless it be interrupted by howling winds) a sullen silence, sits brooding upon the boughs, which are now made vocal by a thousand warbling throats.
But (sweet recollection! ravishing expectation!) the songs of saints in light never admit a pause for sadness. All heaven will resound with the melody of their gratitude, and all eternity echo to their triumphant acclamations. The hallelujahs of that world, and the harmonious joy of its inhabitants, will be as lasting as Die divine perfections they celebrate. Come then, holy love, and tune my heart; descend, celestial fire, and touch my tongue, that I may stand leady to strike up, and bear my part in that great hosanna, that everlasting hymn.
Yes, yes, ye flowery nations, ye must all decay. And, indeed, could you add the strength of an oak, or the stability of a pyramid*, to all the delicacy of your texture; yet short, exceeding
* I know not any performance, in which the transitory nature of these most durable monuments of human grandeur, is hinted with such a modest air of instruction; or their hideous ruin described in such a pomp of pleasing horror; as in a small, but solemn, picturesque, and majestic poem, entitled, The Ruins of Rome, written by the Rev. Mr. Dyer; whom the reader (if he has the pleasure of perusing that beautiful piece) will easily perceive to have taken his draughts from the originals themselves, as nothing but the sight of those magnincent remains could have inspired the lines with such vivacity. As a specimen of short, even then, would your duration be. For I see, that all things come to an end. The pillars of nature are tottering. The foundations of the round world are failing away. * The heavens themselves wax old like a garment.’ But, ainidst these views of general ruin, here is our refuge; this is our consolation; we know that our Redeemer liveth. Thy years, blessed Jesus, shall not fail. From everlasting to everlasting, Thou art still the same; the same most excellent and adorable person; the same omnipotent and faithful friend; the same all-sufficient and inestimable portion. O! may we but partake of thy merits, be sanctified by thy grace, and received into thy glory! Then perish, if ye will, all inferior delights. Let all that is splendid in the skies, expire; and all that is amiable in nature, be expunged. Let the whole extent o-f creation be turned again into one undistinguishable void, one universal blank. Yet, if God be ours, we shall have enough. If God be ours, we shall have all, and abound *; all that our circumstances can want, or our wishes crave, to make us inconceivably blessed and happy; blessed and happy, not only
the work, and a confirmation of the remark suggested above, I take leave to transcribe the following passage:
The pilgrim oft,
At dead of night, mid his oraison hears Aghast the voice of time, disparting tow’rs, Tumbling all precipitate down dashed, Rattling around, loud thund’ring to the moon.
* His hand the good man fastens on the skies, And bids earth roll, nor feels the idle whirl.
Wight Thoughts, No* 17.
through this little interval of time, but through the uumeasurable revolutions of eternity.
lhe sun is now come forth in his strength, and beats fiercely upon my throbbing pulse. Let me retire to yonder inviting arbor. There the woodbines retain the lucid drop; there the jessamines, which line the verdant alcove, are still impearled, and deliciously wet with dews. Welcome, ye refreshing shades! I feel, I feel, your cheering influence. My languid spirits revive; the slackened sinews are new strung; and life bounds brisker through all her crimson channels.
Reclined on this mossy couch, and surrounded by this fragrant coldness, let me renew my aspirations to the ever-present Deity. Here, let me remember and imitate the pious Augustine and his mother Monica; who, being engaged in discourse on the beauties of the visible creation, rose, by these ladders, to the glories of the invisible state; till they were inspired with the most affecting sense of their supereminent excellency, and actuated with the most ardent breathings after their full enjoyment; insomuch, that they were almost wrapt up into the bliss they contemplated; and scarce ’ knew, whether they were in the body, or cut of the body.’
When tempests toss the ocean; when plaintive signals of distress are heard from the bellowing deep; and melancholy tokens of shipwreck come floating on the foaming surge; then, how delightful to stand safe on shore, and hug one’s self in conscious security*. When a glut of waters bursts
* As Lucretius gave the hint for these observations, so he assigns the reason of the pleasure specified. It aiises, not from the consideration of another’s misery; this would argue the rankest malevolence: but from the agreeable contemplation of our own personal safety; which, while we view from some mighty torrent, rushes headlong ever all the neighbouring plains, sweeps away the helpless cattle, and drives the affrighted shepherd from his hut; then, from the top of a distant eminence, to descry the danger we need not fear; how pleasing ! — Such, methinks, is my present situation. For now the sun blazes from on high; the air glows with his fire; the fields are rent with chinks; the roads are scorched to dust; the woods seem to contract a sickly aspect, and a russet hue; the traveller, broiled as lie rides, hastens to his inn, and intermits his journey; the labourer, bathed in sweat, drops the si the, and desists from his work; the cattle flee to some shady covert, or else pant and toss under the burning noon. Even the stubborn rock, smit with the piercing beams, is ready to cleave. All things languish beneath the dazzling deluge — while 1 shall enjoy a cool hour, and calm reflection, amidst the gloom of this bowery recess, which scarce admits one speck of sunshine.
Thus, may both the flock and their shepherd dwell beneath the defence of the Most High, and abide under the shadow of the Almighty*. Then, though the pestilence walketh in darkness, and the sickness destroyeth at noonday; though thousands fall beside us, aod ten thousands at our right-hand; we need fear no evilt. Either the destroying angel shall pass over our houses; or else he shall dispense the corrections of a friend, not the scourges of an enemy; which, instead cf hurting us, shall work for our good. Then, though
circumstances that are pernicious to others, but harmless to ourselves, is not a little heightened by the contrast. Suave mari magno, &c.
* Psal. xci. 1.
t This was written when a very infectious and mortal distemper raged in the neighbourhood.
profonenesa and infidelity, far more malignant e iU, breathe deadiy contagion, and taint the moral* of multitudes around us; jet, if the great Father of Spirits ’ hide us in the hollow of his hand,’ we shall hold fast our integrity, and be faithful unto death.
Let then, dearset Lord, O! let thy servant, and the people committed to his care, be received into thy protection. Let us take sanctuary under that tree of life, erected in thy ignominious cross. Let us fly for safety to that city of refuge, opened hr-thy bleeding wounds. These shall be a sacred hiding-place, not to be pierced by the flames of divine wrath, or the fiery darts of temptation. Thy dying merits, and perfect obedience, shall be to our souls as rivers of water in a dry place, or as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land*.
bu most of all, in that last tremendous day, when the heavens are rent asunder, and wrapped up like a scroll; when thy Almighty arm shall arrest the sun in his career, and dash to pieces the structure of the universe; when the dead, both small and great, shall be gathered before the throne of thy glery; and the fates of all mankind hang on the very point of a final irreversible decision : — Then, blessed Jesus, let us be owned by Thee, and we shall not be ashamed; defended by Thee, and we shall not be afraid. O! may we, at that awful, that unutterably important juncture, be covered with the wings of thy redeeming love; and we shall behold all the horrible convulsions of expiring nature, with composure, with comfort! “We shall even welcome the dissolution of all things, as the times of refreshing from the presence of the Lordt.
Ivdi. xiiii. 2. t Acts iii. 1[).
There are, 1 perceive, who still attend the flowers; and, in defiance of the sun, ply their work on every expanded blossom. The bees I mean; that nation of chymists, to whom nature has communicated the rare and valuable secret, of enriching themselves without, impoverishing others; who extract the most delicious By rap from every fragrant herb, without wounding its substance, or diminishing its odors. I take the more notice of these ingenious operators, because I would willingly make them my pattern*. While the gay butterfly flutters her painted wings, and sips a little fantastic delight only for the present moment; while the gloomy spider, worse than idly busied, is preparing his insidious nets for destruction, or sucking venom, even from the most wholesome plants; this frugal community are wisely employed in providing for futurity, and collecting a copious stock of the most balmy treasures. And O! might these meditations sink into my soul! Would the God, who suggested each heavenly thought, vouchsafe to convert it into an established principle; to determine all my inclinations, and regulate rny whole conduct! I should then gather advantages from the same blooming objects, more precious than your golden stores, ye industrious artists. I also should go home, laden with the richest sweets and the noblest spoils; though I crop not a leaf, nor call a single flower my own.
Here I behold, assembled in one view, almost all the various beauties which have been severally entertaining my imagination. The vistas, struck through an ancient wood, or formed by rows of
* Ego apis Matinae
More modoque
Grata carpentis thyraa. Hor.
venerable elms, conducting the spectator’s observation to some remarkable object, or leading the traveller’s footsteps to this delightful seat; the walls enriched with fruit trees, and faced with a covering of their leafy extensions; I should rather have said, hung with different pieces of nature’s noblest tapestry; the walks neatly shorn and lined with verdure, or finely smoothed and coated with gravel; the alleys arched with shades to embower our noon-tide repose, or thrown open for the free accession of air to invite us to our evening recreation; the decent edgings of box, which inclose, like a plain selvage, each beautiful compartment, and its splendid figures; the shapely evergreens and flowering shrubs, which strike the eye, and appear with peculiar dignity in this distant situation; the bason with its crystal fount floating in the centre, and diffusing an agreeable freshness through the whole; the waters, falling from a remote cascade, and gently murmuring as they flow along the pebbles; these, added to the rest, and all so disposed, that each recommends and endears each, render the whole a most sweet ravishing scene of order and variety, of elegance and magnificence.
From so many lovely prospects clustering upon the sight, it is impossible not to be reminded of heaven; that world of bliss, those regions of light, where the Lamb that was slain manifests his beatific presence, and his saints live for evermore. Bufc.O! what pencil can sketch out a draught of that goodly land! What colours or what style can express the splendors of lmmanuei’s kingdom! Would some celestial hand draw aside the veil but for one moment, and permit us to throw a single glance on those divine abodes; how would all sublunary possessions become tarnished in our eyes, and grow flat upon our taste! A glimpse, a transient glimpse of those unutterable beatitudes would captivate our souls and engross all their faculties. Eden itself, after such a vision, would appear a cheerless desert, and all earthly charms intolerable deformity.
Very excellent things are spoken of thee, thou city of God*. Volumes have been written, and those by inspired men, to display the wonders of thy perfections. All that is rich and resplendent in the visible creation has been called in to aid our conceptions, and elevate our ideas; but indeed, no tongue can utter, no pen can describe, no fancy can imagine, what God, of his unbounded munificence, has prepared for them that love him. Seeing then that all terrestial things must come to a speedy end, and there remaineth a rest, a blissful and everlasting rest, for the people of God; let me never be too fondly attached to any present satisfactions; weaned from whatever is temporal, may I maintain a superior indifference for such transitory enjoyments; but long, long earnestly for the mansions that are above, the paradise ’ which the Lord hath planted, and not man.’ Thither may I transmit the chief of my conversation, and from thence expect the whole of my happiness. Be that the sacred powerful magnet which ever influences my heart, ever attracts my affections; there are such transcendent glories, as eye has not seen; there are such transporting pleasures as ear has not heard; there is such a fulness of joys, as the thought of man cannot conceive.
Into that consummate felicity, those eternal fruitions; permit me, Madam, to wish you, in due
* Psal. lxxxvii. 2.
time, ao abundant entrance; and to assure you, that this wish is breathed with the same sincerity and ardor for my honoured correspondent, as it is, Madam, for
Your most obedient, Sec.
J. HERVEY.