The Lord Jesus, when he was upon earth, was the most gentle, kind and compassionate man in the world; he was easy to be intreated, he healed all that came to him to be healed of their diseases, and even died for sinners; and now, though he is exalted at God's right hand....nay, though he is himself the eternal God, yet he is as kind and gracious as ever. May this Holy Spirit convince you of your need of his salvation, and cause you earnestly and diligently to seek it, then shall you find him the kindest Father, the most gracious Saviour, and the most faithful and affectionate friend, all your future life; he will be your God and your guide unto death, and your glorious portion in eternity. That this may be your happy experience, is the sincere wish, and shall be the hearty prayer of, Dear Miss, Your affectionate friend MARIA DE FLEURY. Eternal Love : AN ODE. Now I attempt a vast immortal theme, And try my voice to sing the Saviour's name. Thou sun of heaven! source of celestial fire! Eternal Spirit! my bold Muse inspire; Inflame the soul, and guide the raptur'd tongue That dares aspire to so sublime a song. Jesus I sing; delightful name! I feel already the inspiring flame! Creation fades, and more than heav'n appears, My soul flies back, beyond eternal years; There I behold th' Almighty Son, 'Midst of the everlasting throne, One with the Father, with the Spirit one, Bless'd in perfections all his own, Glories immense and infinite, Beam from his face, and rest upon his crown. Then, vast immeasurable grace, And purposes of love, Love everlasting, great and undefin'd, Y And burn'd tow'rds our unworthy race, Chose before seraphim, recovering grace to prove. And instant into being sprung; Before immensity of space was dress'd Where each of his redeem'd should dwell, He thought on Cedron's brook and Calv'ry's height; Stupendous grace! Creatures of vile original and birth, |