The psalmody : a collection of hymns ...

Front matter

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THE

PSALM

Preface

essentially improve them ; and where a decided improvement has been made, no pains have been spared to select

the most desirable versions.

Hymns containing sentiments obviously inharmonious with the faith of those for whom this book is especially designed have been excluded, though in some instances possessing, in other respects, rare merits. If, however, there ; should occasionally occur a sentence which might be construed into a slight leaning towards an erroneous doctrine or an exploded dogma, it should be borne in mind that more may be gained by giving to the genius of poetry a little latitude than by placing it under too much restriction ; and that there are hymns whose language may, in a single instance, leave us in doubt as to the author's meaning, which, nevertheless, are too good to be lost.

In the arrangement of the hymns, regard has been had to the natural order suggested by some relation which the subjects treated of sustain to each other; and the hymns Arranged under the several general subjects which treat of particular topics are grouped together; though these subdivisions are not noticed in the table of contents. A little attention to the order of arrangement which extends through the book will render the whole system plain and practical. By consulting the alphabetical index of subjects, one is conducted to a group of hymns treating more or less directly on the topic in question, from which he can make his selection at pleasure. The scriptural references being full, and, as it is hoped, generally accurate, will afford great aid to the same end ; but the index just referred to is most to be relied on, tnough even this cannot be supposed to be perfect.

The work thus prepared goes to the churches with the sincere and most fervent prayers of the compilers, that it may aid the pious in their devotions, tend to elevate and improve the standard of sacred music in our congregations, and contribute in no small degree to the advancement and triumphs of the glorious cause and kingdom of Christ, in whose sight "praise is comelv."

CONTEXTS.

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WORSHIP AND PI'.AISE 1-SO

FRAISE TO CHRIST ! 275-296

HOLY SPIRIT 297-32<J

THE CHURCH 468-49i

THE LORD'S SUTLER 510-527

PRAYER ANTJ WATCHFULNESS 704-7£i