THE

BOOK OF NATURE;

OR, THE

TRUE SENSE OF THINGS,

EXPLAINED AND MADE EASY

TO THE

CAPACITIES OF CHILDREN.

PART II.

TO whom can I present this second part of the Book of Nature fo properly as to you; who, by the good use you made of the first part, have given me encouragement to proceed ?

I have taken pleasure in many different studies; and some of my productions have been the fruit of much labour: but I look upon this little book as a work of more hope than some others of greater appearance. The new language of it is a sort of new wine, which must be put into new vessels, into minds untainted by false learning, unoccupied by the prejudices of education; and then, little preparation will be required in the scholar, more than a good knowledge of the Catechism of the Church of England, and a readiness in the reading of the Scripture, and in turning to the several parts

parts of it. This second set of Lessons hath already been tried upon the forwardest children of our Sunday Schools; and, from the progress they make, and the avidity with which they receive this kind of instruction, I am able to answer for the good effect of it. I can therefore recommend it to you with the greater confidence. If it succeeds in my hands, it may succeed better in yours; who, from your own judgment, will enlarge upon my several subjects in a familiar conversation with your little disciples; and thereby render these lessons more instructive, as well as more agreeable. In the way I have marked out, go on, after your own manner, and the Lord prosper you.

May 1, 1792.

THE

THE

BOOK OF NATURE, &c.

PART II.

I. THE CHAPTER OF CHILDREN.

JESUS

CHRIST took a little child, and set him forth as a pattern, to shew with what temper of mind his doctrine must be received; and that men, even the greatest and the wisest of them, must become as little children, before they can be his disciples.

For the same reason, the Apostle also exhorts all christians to return to the state of children, and to desire like new-born babes the sincere milk of the word. They can receive nothing on any other condition: for, is it not said, that he who will enter into the kingdom of heaven, must be born again? And he who is newly born must be in the state VOL. XI.

F

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