The Preface

The design of publishing this part of the works of the worthy Author, is to do honour to his memory, and to gratify severals, whose savour of piety hath indeared it to them; of whom we might mention some of high distinction. If it be asked why it was not published sooner, there is no other reason to be given than that it was a loss, and that better now than not at all. By the Dedication to Mr Thomas Ross (a singularly pious minister in the North), the Author seems to give permission to publish it, so that the world may be fully satisfied that the work is genuine, being copied from that writ by his own hand, of the truth of which they may rest assured, as can be attested by several ministers still living. The reason why Mr Thomas Ross did not cause to publish it probably was, that he was at the time he received it in prison at Tayne, and died there in prison, or soon thereafter. Such as had a tender regard for the Author wished that this had been published at the same time with the first part of his treatise on faith: particularly this would help to clear up that, as to some things dark, and not so very obvious, at least till it was thought proper to publish the second part of that treatise. It was and is the wish of many, that the rest of his life, particularly after his settlement at Culross had been got; for surely he wrote diaries during life, but, after all the search possible, this could not be found. This now published is, however, very valuable, and will be so esteemed by the truly serious and judicious, being a very rational account of conversion, as to beginning, progress, and issue, and of the operation of the Spirit of God on the heart: and such an account of faith as cannot but please those who love it, and may, by the blessing of God, help to engage to it such as hitherto had it not in reality. There is perhaps no other performance gives a more distinct account of a supernatural work of grace; and it is thought not to be unseasonable at this juncture for reviving piety and the exercise of grace, and convicting those who make a jest of these serious matters. The first eight chapters, dedicated to Mr Thomas Ross, were allowed by himself to be published; what follows is judged to be of good use, and therefore now published with the rest.